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Olympic WeightliftingintermediateBarbell

Split Jerk

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

Split Jerk demonstration

Split Jerk, starting position
Split Jerk, starting position
Split Jerk, finishing position
Split Jerk, finishing position

How to Perform

  1. 1Standing with the weight racked on the front of the shoulders, begin with the dip. With your feet directly under your hips, flex the knees without moving the hips backward.
  2. 2Go down only slightly, and reverse direction as powerfully as possible. Drive through the heels create as much speed and force as possible, and be sure to move your head out of the way as the bar leaves the shoulders. At this moment as the feet leave the floor, the feet must be placed into the receiving position as quickly as possible.
  3. 3In the brief moment the feet are not actively driving against the platform, the athlete's effort to push the bar up will drive them down. The feet should be moved to a split stance, one foot forward, one foot back, with the knees partially bent. Receive the bar with the arms locked out overhead.
  4. 4Return to a standing position, bringing the feet together.

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
QuadricepsGlutesHamstringsShouldersTriceps

Exercise Details

Category
Olympic Weightlifting
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Level
intermediate

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Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Split Jerk work?

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

What equipment do I need for Split Jerk?

Split Jerk requires Barbell.

Is Split Jerk suitable for beginners?

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

Alternatives to Split Jerk

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