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Barbell Power Clean from Blocks

Barbell Power Clean from Blocks demonstration

Watch the demo so setup and tempo are clear before you follow the step-by-step cues.

Barbell Power Clean from Blocks exercise demonstration for Weightlifting, Barbell

Performing the: A Step-by-Step Tutorial Barbell Power Clean from Blocks

Work through the cues in order so setup, bracing, and reps stay consistent before you add load.

  • With your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, grip the barbell, bend your knees slightly, and keep your back straight, ensuring that your shoulders are over the bar and your chest is up.
  • Initiate the movement by explosively extending your hips and knees, simultaneously pulling the barbell up to your shoulders, keeping the bar as close to your body as possible.
  • As the barbell reaches shoulder height, quickly drop under the bar by bending your knees and hips, catching the barbell on the front of your shoulders with your elbows pointing forward and up.
  • Stand up straight to complete the movement, then carefully lower the barbell back onto the blocks to prepare for the next repetition.

Tips for Performing Barbell Power Clean from Blocks

Form reminders that keep range of motion and control in check once the basic pattern feels stable.

  • Correct Stance: Your feet should be hip-width apart, with your toes slightly pointed outwards. Your grip on the barbell should be slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. A common mistake is having either too narrow or too wide a stance, which can affect your balance and the efficiency of your lift.
  • Proper Lifting Technique: When lifting the barbell, keep your back straight and your chest up. Drive through your heels to initiate the lift, and use your hips and legs to generate power. As the barbell reaches your hips, explosively extend your hips and knees

Can beginners do the Barbell Power Clean from Blocks?

A short framing note on whether this pattern suits newer lifters before you load it heavily.

Yes, beginners can do the Barbell Power Clean from Blocks exercise, but it's essential to learn the correct form and technique to avoid injury. It's a complex movement that requires coordination, strength, and power. Beginners should start with lighter weights and gradually increase as they become more comfortable with the exercise. It's highly recommended to have a coach or personal trainer supervise and guide through the initial stages of learning this exercise.

What are common variations of the Barbell Power Clean from Blocks?

Compare these progressions when the main pattern is solid or you need a different stimulus with similar equipment.

  • High Block Power Clean: In this variation, the barbell starts on blocks set just above the knee, allowing the lifter to focus on the explosive extension and catch phase.
  • Low Block Power Clean: The barbell starts on blocks set below the knee in this variation, which increases the range of motion and challenges the first pull.
  • Power Clean from Deficit: This variation involves standing on a raised platform, which increases the range of motion and challenges the initial pull from the ground.
  • No Feet Power Clean: The lifter performs the power clean without moving the feet from the floor to the catch position in this variation, focusing on improving the pull under the bar and the catch phase.