Rio 2016 has proven to be one of the most successful Olympics for weightlifting as a whole in many years. Although the Great Britain team have not secured as many podium finishes as other countries, Great Britain as a whole have performed very well.

In our opinion, the recent boom in weight lifting, weight lifting competitions and new weightlifting clubs are contributing factors to the improved performance of British weight lifters. British Weight Lifting have done an excellent job over recent years in popularising the sport as well as promoting the Level 1 Award in Coaching Weight Lifting and the Level 2 Certificate in Coaching Weight Lifting courses extremely well.

The benefits of weight lifting are well documented and include:

• Improved strength
• Improved cardio respiratory health
• Improved mobility and flexibility
• Improved posture

Rio 2016 has seen several new world records which almost defy physical capabilities. One world record which stands out includes Lasha Talakhadze from Georgia; Lasha totalled 473 kilograms in his weight category and won Gold (Snatch = 215kg & Clean and Jerk = 258kg). Wow, our weight lifting tutors would be super happy with lifts that were just 50% of those totals.

As well as this, weight lifting doesn’t just improve physical aspects of health but it can also improve the confidence of those participating, provide a sense of belonging to a club and also the enjoyment which comes with being part of a club.

Weight lifting is not about competing against others like it is at Rio. In fact, it is far from it. Not everyone who starts weightlifting wants to do so for the competitive side which we see right now at the Olympics, but some participants rather take part or start weight lifting for themselves. The sense of achievement that comes with achieving a new personal best or mastering a lift is extremely self-rewarding.

During our weight lifting courses we often discuss the reasons why clients may start weight lifting and self-reward is often one of the first things which new and aspiring coaches highlight. If you are a CrossFit coach, Personal Trainer or a keen weight lifter and want to improve your knowledge regarding the lifts, how to coach athletes or clubs or want to set up your own weightlifting coach then don’t hesitate to contact us today for more information on our weight lifting qualifications in Manchester and Cardiff.