Weightlifting
Weightlifting is a sport based on the performance of lifting a barbell overhead. Weightlifting competitions today include 2 categories: snatch and jerk. Weightlifters have 3 attempts in each round.
Disciplines
History
Competitions for lifting weights have been found in the cultures of the peoples all over the world since ancient times. The earliest references to such competitions date back to Ancient Egypt, Ancient China and Ancient Greece.
The World Weightlifting Union was formed in 1912. At the same time, the rules of weightlifting competitions were standardised. Weightlifting has been on the Olympic Games programme since 1896 (except 1900, 1908, 1912). The competition programme and weight categories of athletes were constantly changing. Before the creation of the International Weightlifting Federation, sportsmen competed in the two-handed press and push, sometimes in the snatch and one-handed push. - In 1920 - in triathlon (snatch and jerk with one arm, jerk with two arms) - In 1924 - in pentathlon (snatch and jerk with one arm, press, snatch and jerk with two arms) - from 1928 to 1972 - in the triathlon (two-handed press, snatch and deadlift) - and since 1973 - double event (snatch and push with two hands)
Rules
Each lifter in the contest has three snatch attempts and three jerk attempts. The heaviest weight of the bar lifted in each lift is added to the total. Weightlifting competitions are held to determine the winners and runners-up in each weight category. Weigh-in will take place two hours before the competition.
There are 5 weight categories for women (49 kg, 59 kg, 71 kg, 81 kg, over 81 kg) and 5 weight categories for men (61 kg, 73 kg, 89 kg, 102 kg, over 102 kg).
Top Three Facts
Russian weightlifting has its own birthday - 18 August 1885, when a group of weightlifters was registered in St. Petersburg. It was organised by Vladislav Frantsevich Krajewski, a well-known doctor in the city.
According to legend, the original form of weightlifting was a strength test for enlistment in the Chinese army. References to it date back to the Shu dynasty in 1000 BC.
The prototype of the modern barbell was invented by the Greeks. It consisted of stone and metal cores connected by handles. The projectiles were called "galte resa".
Competition Venue
