Welcome to Split Lifts
What this blog is for
I'm keeping this blog for the primary purpose of aggregating links to material found elsewhere on the internet that relate to the "split versions" of the classic weightlifting lifts - the press, the snatch, and the clean and jerk.
At one time in the distant past many competitors who performed these lifts received the bar in a split position rather than a squat position. Over time, the use of squat style lifts in competition eclipsed the use of the split lifts.
In recent years, however, an increase in competitive participation at the masters level has led to renewed interest in the "fore and aft" split style of lifting. Despite this development, there is no single comprehensive source on technique and programming for this style of lifting on the internet, and what information exists must be found with diligent searching. The scarcity of ready information is understandable; competitive coaches and lifters who are active on the internet are primarily interested in conveying information regarding the style of lifting that is optimal for winning competitions.
However, I think there are benefits to preserving knowledge of this style of weightlifting. Before the squat lifts took over, plenty of athletes increased their strength, power, and muscle mass using the split lifts. Benefits can be realized from them, and they may be more accessible to certain athletes who are unable for one reason or another to meet some of the requirements of the squat style lifts.
