Powerlifting = Explosiveness

The most beneficial exercises for athletes are those that simulate movements they make when playing there sport.  For football players the power clean simulates the motion of tackling an opposing player.  Additionally, the squat simulates a lineman firing off of the line of scrimmage and blocking an opponent.  A push press is similar to a basketball player jumping up for a rebound with both hands.  To elevate your performance in sports, powerlifting is beneficial because it increases explosiveness.  In sport, an athlete must use their fast-twitch muscles to sprint, jump, shuffle, and squat.  Powerlifting allows the athlete to improve their quickness by increasing their fast-twitch fibers through explosive lifts.  When powerlifting, the athlete should focus on bar speed.  Bar speed is basically moving the bar as fast as possible while staying in control.  To insure they are getting maximum bar speed an athlete must learn the proper technique or they may risk injury.  The most beneficial powerlifting moves are: Power Clean, Split Jerk, Squats, Deadlifts, Clean Pull, and Power Snatch.  Check back in next week for a description on how to properly perform some of these moves.

"An athlete is either getting better or worse, there is no such thing as maintaining"

JUSTIN BEITZEL