Asian Games 2022: Rules of dynamic sport "Weightlifting"

Published at :August 15, 2023 at 10:09 AM

Modified at :January 13, 2024 at 5:47 PM

Mirabai Chanu will spearhead the Indian contingent at the Asiads

The 19th Asian Games 2022,which was postponed due to Covid-19 is all set to commence from September 23 to October 8, 2023 at Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China. Amongst all the sporting events weightlifting has been one of the most intriguing sports to watch as it is embodiment of human strength and courage.

Weightlifting became part of the Asian Games in 1951 and has been a thrilling and enduring presence since (except for the year 1962). Indian Weightlifting has consistently excelled in the Asian Games, securing a commendable collection of medals in this prestigious competition. In a sport driven by technique comprehending rules becomes a crucial aspect.

There are two things you need to understand first i.e. Snatch and Clean & Jerk.

What is Snatch and is Clean & Jerk

A snatch is when in one seamless motion, the weightlifter picks up the barbell and evats it above their head.Moving on to the clean and jerk, this lift comprises two distinct phases. First, the weightlifter must lift the barbell and bring it up to their chest – known as the “clean.” After a brief pause, they must extend their arms and legs to hoist the barbell above their head – the “jerk.” The lifter has to maintain a straight elbow and hold the barbell aloft until a buzzer signals completion.

The lifter who opts for the lowest weight in their first attempt earns the privilege of going first. Once their name is called out, they must attempt the lift within one minute.

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Number of Attempts and the selection of the best

Each weightlifter is granted three attempts for both the snatch and the clean and jerk. The best attempt in each lift is then combined to determine the total weight lifted by the athlete. The participant with the highest combined weight lifted wins the competition. However, in the event of two participants lifting the same total weight, additional criteria are employed to decide the winner.

If the weights lifted are equal, the lifter with the lower body weight takes the lead. And if, by a rare chance, the bodyweight remains identical, the lifter with fewer attempts will be declared the winner.

All eyes would be on the four-member Indian Weightlifting team to repeat the history at Hangzhou.

Indian weightlifting Squad for Asian Games 2023

Men’s: Achinta Sheuli (73kg), N Ajith (73kg)Women’s: Mirabai Chanu (49kg), Bindyarani Devi (55kg)

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