Author Topic: Questions (Read 2000 times)

Matt Denslinger · « **on:** Dec 13, 2005, 08:27 PM »

Hi, I'm a newbie to olympic lifting and I'm going to meet up with a coach soon to get him to show me how to do the lifts. However, until then does anyone have a good beginner routine that will help me develop strength and explosiveness?

I'm planning to do my first competition over the summer most likely and I'm looking forward to it and I'll need some equipment too. So...I was looking at getting a pair of shoes and would like to know what is a good shoe to buy and where to get them? Figured might as well get them for christmas instead of paying for them later.

Also, I've noticed how extremely unpopular o-lifting is. It's easier to find poker on the tv instead of any of the competitions. Oh well.

Thanks.

Chris Ⓐ LeRoux · « **Reply #1 on:** Dec 14, 2005, 06:22 PM »

Matt,

For shoes, check the links section, especially Dynamic Fitness, the USAW, and Venue (Inexpensive Weightlifting Shoes.)

Routines are hard to get standardized. They need to be suited to individual needs and no program can replace a coach. Check out the USAW Reference section, club by LWC link to look for a coach in your area. Having said that, many people on the site could give you somewhere to start but we would at the very least need to know your current strength levels in the lifts and assistance exercises and desired training frequency. You might enjoy checking out the Rocky Gibraltar Project. The programs for Rocky are not for a beginner but may provide some insight. Also, check our Literature sections. And, feel free to ask more questions.

Mark Kodya · « **Reply #2 on:** Dec 16, 2005, 10:13 PM »

Matt,
I echo Chris's comments. However, that having been said, I will recommend two training programs. Actually, they are more "systems" of training, than specific programs, which is exactly why I am recommending them. They are easily adaptable to large groups, have built in potential modifications and simple in basic design (without using the modifications). Now what they lack is any discussion of proper technique, finer points of the lifts, and specificity to the individual. So there are considerable limits to their value. But until you find a coach, Bill Starr's "Big 3" program and/or the BiggerFasterStronger program (as actually conceived, not the abbreviated modified bastardized version of it practiced at many high schools that claim to be BFS schools). Both are quite similar in many regards and actually share some similarity with George Frenn's routine at the original "Westside Barbell". In addition to being a great powerlifter, George was a good weightlifter (363ish cj), a great hammer thrower and at that time the best in the world at 35 pound weight throw. Anyone of the three would give you a good structure to work with. I mean structure in terms of workout content, not your physical makeup.

Mark

Matt Denslinger · « **Reply #3 on:** Dec 19, 2005, 11:13 AM »

Thanks for the tips.

I saw your located in PA, Mark. What city/town?

Oh, another question. Since I'm tall at about 6' I should probably gain weight and try to compete in 94kg and above weight classes?

Chris Ⓐ LeRoux · « **Reply #4 on:** Jan 16, 2006, 11:09 AM »

Quote from: "Matt"

Oh, another question. Since I'm tall at about 6' I should probably gain weight and try to compete in 94kg and above weight classes?

I would say yes, if you are 6'1, you will surely want to continue moving up the weight classes, at least up to 94 and maybe higher in the future.

Matt Denslinger · « **Reply #5 on:** Jan 16, 2006, 08:30 PM »

Quote from: "Chris LeRoux"

Quote from: "Matt"
Oh, another question. Since I'm tall at about 6' I should probably gain weight and try to compete in 94kg and above weight classes?

I would say yes, if you are 6'1, you will surely want to continue moving up the weight classes, at least up to 94 and maybe higher in the future.

Well, you misread my post I'm about 6 not 6'1 but I guess an inch doesn't matter. I'm aiming for the 105 class most likely. I have quite a bit to gain to get there, but I figured it will come with time.

However, I haven't contacted a coach yet because of my knee. I torn the meniscus, acl sprain, and a partial tear of the MCL or PCL or some other ligament can remember which. It has actually gotten better since I started doing back squats, but I am seeing an orthopedic doctor next week and I'll see if surgery is needed or not. I hurt my knee early october, I believe doing a powerlifting style squat, went too wide. I figured after that gets squared away I can give 100%.

It's kind of funny though, I think I'm stronger than before the injury. I got shoes, they helped and I stretch daily, I've noticed a improvement in flexibility overall too.

I've attempted to learn the lifts from the hang and have been doing alright.

Question, for the snatch are the shoulder blades supposed to pressed together?

Jim Storch · « **Reply #6 on:** Jan 17, 2006, 06:35 AM »

Where in PA are you located? You can PM me if you like.

Matt Denslinger · « **Reply #7 on:** Jan 17, 2006, 09:52 AM »

Quote from: "Jim Storch"

Where in PA are you located? You can PM me if you like.

I'm located in Central PA, Mechanicsburg, but I'm attending school at Shippensburg. I've talked with Mike Walters via email and he gave me Leo Tottens number and Russ McDonnells number. So if you know anyone closer, let me know.