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Olympic WeightliftingintermediateBarbell

Jerk Balance

Primary
Shoulders
Secondary
Glutes, Hamstrings, Quadriceps, Triceps
Equipment
Barbell
Level
intermediate

Jerk Balance demonstration

Jerk Balance, starting position
Jerk Balance, starting position
Jerk Balance, finishing position
Jerk Balance, finishing position

How to Perform

  1. 1This drill helps you learn to drive yourself low enough during the jerk and corrects those who move backward during the movement. Begin with the bar racked in the jerk position, with the shoulders forward, torso upright, and the feet split slightly apart.
  2. 2Initiate the movement as you would a normal jerk, dipping at the knees while keeping your torso vertical, and driving back up forcefully, using momentum and not your arms to elevate the weight.
  3. 3Keep the rear foot in place, using it to drive your body forward into a full split as you jerk the weight. Recover by standing up with the weight overhead.

Video Tutorial

Tips & Common Mistakes

  • •Focus on controlled movements rather than speed or momentum
  • •Maintain proper breathing - exhale during the exertion phase
  • •Start with lighter weight to master the form before progressing
  • •As a compound movement, this exercise works multiple muscle groups efficiently

Muscles Worked

Front
Back
ShouldersGlutesHamstringsQuadricepsTriceps

Exercise Details

Category
Olympic Weightlifting
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Level
intermediate

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Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Jerk Balance work?

Jerk Balance primarily targets the Shoulders. It also works the Glutes, Hamstrings, Quadriceps, Triceps as secondary muscles.

What equipment do I need for Jerk Balance?

Jerk Balance requires Barbell.

Is Jerk Balance suitable for beginners?

Jerk Balance is classified as intermediate level. Beginners should master foundational movements first.

Alternatives to Jerk Balance

Substitute any of these when the equipment is taken or unavailable. They train the same primary muscles.