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Getbig Bodybuilding Boards => Training Q&A => Topic started by: smaul on February 12, 2008, 12:27:32 AM

Title: Clean and jerk
Post by: smaul on February 12, 2008, 12:27:32 AM
How do you guys rate these?

I've just started doing them.  I'm planning to do these one week, deadlifts the next. 
Title: Re: Clean and jerk
Post by: Cap on February 12, 2008, 07:23:14 AM
They are a great movement.  I use them exclusively instead of deadlifts.  I find they work better for me and I don't have to use as much weight on the clean to get the same effect on my back.  Alternating is not a bad idea though.
Title: Re: Clean and jerk
Post by: jpm101 on February 12, 2008, 07:31:45 AM
Another top mass producer exercise that BB'ers seldom do. It can become a true full body movement when you include the SQUAT clean and jerk.  It is a learning exercise so a little patience will be required at first. Just take a empty bar and do a lot of rep work the first week or so to get the proper form/style of this lift. You also need flexibility, timing and quickness with the C&J. I would think that doing push or jerk presses would stimulate more actual shoulder development that a true jerk off the shoulders. But suit yourself. Do regular BB'ing reps if that is your goal.

BB'ers want to get massive, but quite a few do not want to invest the extra hard effort on the Big Boy exercises. Like C&J's, squats, DL's, power cleans, jerk presses, etc, etc, etc. Too bad, these can offer some excellent and fast muscle gains when done with serious intent.

C&J's (and like exercises) can give exceptional stamina (endurance plus strength) to even the average trainee. A very good cardio workout in it's self. Even a very good movement for most women. Good Luck.


Title: Re: Clean and jerk
Post by: smaul on February 12, 2008, 08:15:55 AM
I found they really hit the sides of my shoulders more than anything, which I was not expecting.  I guess this is the 'jerk' part.

I would recommend people do these though, loving 'em!
Title: Re: Clean and jerk
Post by: Cap on February 12, 2008, 08:19:35 AM
I found they really hit the sides of my shoulders more than anything, which I was not expecting.  I guess this is the 'jerk' part.

I would recommend people do these though, loving 'em!
Some may disagree but I think (and feel) this is the high pull portion of the lift.  That utilizes your side delts very strongly.
Title: Re: Clean and jerk
Post by: jpm101 on February 12, 2008, 08:31:32 AM
I agree with Cap86, the side delts are affected strongly by any standing pulling motion. Just think of cleans or Hi-pulls as cheating versions of upright rows (either close, middle or wide grip). The rear delts should also get a reasonable workout with any of these pulling movements. The jerk (including push and jerk press) affect the shoulder girdle (delts/traps) giving a thickness and power to the area. Caution, you may have to by new shirts after awhile.

Some guy's use DB's rather the regular BB for cleans & jerks. An excellent movement for size, control and power. Athletics adapt to this DB version quite well. Good Luck.