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The jerk is a technical exercise that involves explosively lifting a weight from the shoulders to an overhead position.

But the move a staple Olympic weightlifting barbell exercise needs mastery.

Male performing barbell jerk in gym

Grab thebest cross training shoesfor your workouts and buckle up.

Heres what he told us.

Mike is a certified CrossFit coach, currently teaching 1:1 and group training at CrossFit Putney, London.

CrossFit athlete Aimee Cringle performing a barbell front squat during competition

What is a jerk?

Once the weight has been cleaned to the shoulders, the lifter will explosively press the weight overhead.

What is the technique of a jerk?

TechniqueWOD - Kettlebell Clean and Jerk Technique - YouTube

During the dip, the lifter can softly bend the knees to prepare for the upward motion.

To receive the weight, the lifter will adopt slightly different techniques depending on the style of jerk.

To reset, the lifter will then re-position their feet with the weight still locked overhead.

Dual Kettlebell Split Jerk - YouTube

During the push jerk, the feet will stay the same distance apart.

Is the jerk a good exercise?

Why can’t I clean and jerk?

Single Kettlebell Push Jerk - YouTube

If you find that youre pitching forward during the jerk, your foot positioning could be to blame.

More from Tom’s Guide

Dumbbell Clean & Jerk Demo- CrossFit 190 - YouTube

The Dumbbell Split Jerk - YouTube

The Dumbbell Push Jerk - YouTube

Rich Froning | Power Clean and Jerk with a Barbell - YouTube

The Clean and Jerk - YouTube

The Push Jerk - YouTube

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