Barbell Clean and Jerk
The Barbell Clean and Jerk is a dynamic full-body exercise that develops strength, power, and coordination.
- Start with the barbell on the floor, feet shoulder-width apart.
- Perform a clean by explosively lifting the barbell to your shoulders.
- From the shoulder position, dip slightly and drive the barbell overhead.
- Lock out your arms and stabilize the barbell overhead.
How to perform the Barbell Clean and Jerk
- Set up. Set up in a stable, balanced starting position appropriate for the Barbell Clean and Jerk using your barbell.
- Brace and execute. Brace your core, control the descent, and move through a full pain-free range of motion while emphasizing your primary working muscles.
- Reset. Reverse the movement under control and reset between repetitions, keeping your form crisp on every rep.
Coaching cues
- Move with intent — every rep should feel deliberate, not rushed.
- Drive force through your working muscles rather than momentum.
- Keep your breathing steady: exhale on the hard part, inhale on the reset.
Common mistakes
- Using too much weight and losing positional control.
- Cutting the range of motion short and missing the target muscle.
- Letting your spine round or hyperextend instead of staying neutral.
Detailed cues, common mistakes, and demonstration video are available in the Fitly app.
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