Weightlifting Should Not Be Taken Lightly: Do You Know What's Happening in Your Gym?

Abstract

Strength training or resistance training should not be confused with weightlifting. Weightlifting can put too much strain on immature bodies—especially when proper technique is forgone in favor of lifting more weight. Medical concerns about strength training frequently originate from the confusion in terminology. Weightlifting is considered a competitive sport that involves maximum lifts; Olympic-style weightlifting uses the snatch and the clean and jerk lifts. Strength training is a systemic, planned program of musculoskeletal overload that can involve body weight training—not simply lifting weights. This article helps distinguish the two and explores the main principles that physical educators should be aware of with their students.