Olympic lifters. They move the heavier weight the greater distance. More athletic because lifting a heavier a greater distance overhead requires timing, quickness and speed. Along with the power to do so. Cleaning 500+ off the floor and than jerking it overhead will require the weight to be moved at least 6 to 8 feet in the air.. Also requires the confidence to do so. The cardio is usually tested quite a bit in training.
Pl'ers have a much shorter range for the weight to travel. With squatting, the Olympic lifter will usually drop down to almost ass to the floor, while Pl'ing only requires a slight break below the knees. DL's require a full standing position, from the floor to the finish, still the weight is not being raise anywhere near the distance a Olympic lifter will raise a bar overhead; maybe 1/8 to 1/4 the distance (being kind here).
BB'ers are the delusional group of the three. Most can't make up their mind if the want to be strong, massive or a combo of both. Trying to use weights that are too heavy is no indication that you will get muscle mass, as far as BB'ing goes. Seen too many BB 'ers benching 240-280 (with smooth &complete control) with much more impressive chest/delts/triceps than a lot of 400+ benchers who are kicking and screaming doing their reps. BB'ers, not overly concerned with numbers on the BB or DB's, but performance, will usually be the most successful.
Strongmen training is a good example of a balance approach to lifting. An experience & background in Olympic or PL'ing is a must. Stamina (strength + endurance) goes alone with their core training.
Personal view only: Olympic, strongman and Power lifter in that order. Fourth for BB'ing. Good Luck.
