What Weightlifters Should Steal From Powerlifting (and How to Do It Right)
You can’t snatch it if you you can’t pull it. You can’t clean it if you can’t squat it.
So why don’t weightlifters steal some of the strength principles that powerlifters live by?
Weightlifting demands technical precision, explosive power, and lightning-fast speed. But none of this is possible without a solid strength foundation. And this is where powerlifting can help elevate your game.
Too many weightlifters hit a wall because they don’t have the raw strength to express their power or technique effectively. This is why it's time to start learning from powerlifters and integrating key strength principles into your training.
Why Weightlifters Should Care About Powerlifting
Bigger Squats = Bigger Snatches and Cleans
If your 1RM front squat is barely above your clean, you have a strength problem. And your back or front squat 1RM is constantly going to be the ceiling for your clean.
Deadlifts for a Stronger Pull
Conventional deadlifts build brute strength off the floor. Plus if you have a stronger your deadlift, all those clean and snatch pulls are going to feel a hell of a lot lighter.
Bench Press? Yes, Really.
The bench press is great for building upper body strength and muscle. A bigger, stronger upper body means better overhead stability and better control of big weights over head. Plus, youll already have a fantastic arch from all your extension biased weightlifting.
How to Steal From Powerlifting To Ensure It’s Complimenting Your Weightlifting
Strategic Strength Blocks – There is no need to go maxing out every week. Instead implement blocks or periods of heavier squats, deadlifts, and pressing to build strength.
Prioritise Position for Maximum Carryover – Focus on high-bar back squats, front squats, conventional deadlifts, and close-grip bench press. And use grip & foot placement that mimics your cleans, snatches & jerks.
Don’t neglect speed & intent – Yes, heavier loads may mean more volume that is ‘slower’ and requires some grinding. But always have the intention to move fast.
Ignoring Recovery Needs – Powerlifting adds stress. You need smart programming to avoid excess fatigue impacting your snatch and clean & jerk.
Why I Built the 12-Week Supertotal Program
All of this is why I created the 12-week Supertotal program—to bridge the gap between weightlifting and powerlifting and help weightlifters build real strength without sacrificing speed or technique. This program is designed to seamlessly integrate powerlifting movements into a weightlifting routine, helping you get stronger while maintaining the explosiveness and technical precision required for Olympic lifting.
Are you ready to stop running into the strength wall? Ready to build the foundation that will take your lifts to the next level?
The right combination of powerlifting and weightlifting is the key to building the complete lifter. If you’re ready to start breaking through those strength limits, book your FREE intro session today and let’s get you on the right track.
