In Defense of High-Rep Olympic Lifts

ByCrossFit Training & EducationAugust 10, 2021

As explained in the 2002 article “Foundations,” “We… place a heavy emphasis on Olympic weightlifting having seen this sport’s unique ability to develop an athlete’s explosive power, control of external objects, and mastery of critical motor recruitment patterns.”

For those who understand the CrossFit methodology and its application, this statement captures the vital role Olympic weightlifting plays in athlete development and our program. Unfortunately, the Olympic lifts have become a constant source of criticism for CrossFit over the last decade.

Nicole Christensen sits down with Chris McDonald, Stephane Rochet, Eric O’Connor, and Denise Thomas to discuss the issue. Collectively, the group has 50+ years of experience introducing and teaching the Olympic lifts to CrossFit athletes.

Read the article “In Defense of High-Rep Olympic Lifts