Choosing Attempts for a Weightlifting Meet
This article covers both how to choose attempts for beginners or intermediate athletes, so that whether you are getting ready for your first meet, or are starting to try and qualify for bigger competitions, this can help you out!
As a beginner, the number one priority is making lifts, and learning the flow of competition. Then as you become more advanced, the priority shifts from making lifts, to vying for a medal position, PR’s or qualifying totals.
If you are about to do your first meet, choose a first attempt that you know FOR SURE that you can do even with your eyes closed. After that, choose a weight that is a little more challenging, but that you have done for a double in training. For your third, choose a weight that is heavy, but you have done it once or twice in training. This should set you up to be in a position where you can make all of your lifts, without feeling like you didn’t earn it.
As an intermediate, the priority shifts away from making all of your lifts, and while that is still a goal, it is less important.
Instead, we outline our priorities in this order.
1) Qualifying Total
2) Medal Position
3) PR’s
So this assumes that the athlete has a good handle on their abilities, and knows what numbers they can hit, can probably hit, and definitely can’t hit. Know what competition you are trying to qualify for, whether it’s an American Open Series, or Senior Nationals, set yourself up to complete the qualifying total within the first 2 attempts for both the snatches and clean & jerks. After you have guaranteed you have qualified for your competition, then depending on the ability level of the athlete and those they are competing against, decide whether the medal or the PR is more likely, then go for those numbers. This will set you up to make sure you don’t overreach for numbers, reduce the risk of injury, or bombing out.
Hopefully, you found this useful! If you’re interested in any of my coaching or programs, you can find them here! Otherwise, make sure to join my free discord to get access to form checks, weightlifting advice, and stay up to date on program launches, events, and other cool stuff!
-Coach Brian