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    1. Home
    2. Exercises
    3. Barbell Clean and Jerk

    Barbell Clean and Jerk Exercise Guide

    Barbell Clean and Jerk demonstration

    Exercise Profile

    Target
    Shoulders
    Equipment
    Barbell
    Body Part
    Weightlifting
    Primary Muscle
    Shoulders
    Secondary Muscles
    Gluteus Maximus, Hamstrings, Erector Spinae, Quadriceps
    Intensity
    high
    Category
    strength
    Skill Level
    advanced
    Estimated Calories
    8.5
    Alternate Names
    Clean and Jerk

    How to: Barbell Clean and Jerk

    1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and the barbell over your feet.
    2. Bend at your hips and knees to grip the barbell with both hands just outside your knees.
    3. Lift the barbell off the ground while keeping your back straight and chest up.
    4. Once the barbell passes the knees, extend your hips aggressively and pull the barbell upward.
    5. Get under the barbell to catch it in a front squat position, then stand up.
    6. Press the barbell overhead until your arms are fully extended.
    7. Lower the barbell back to the starting position in a controlled manner.

    Common Mistakes

    • Not keeping the bar close to the body during the lift.
    • Using too much momentum instead of proper muscle engagement.
    • Letting the back round during the lift.

    Modifications

    • Use lighter weights to master the technique.
    • Perform the exercise with kettlebells if barbells are difficult.

    Tips

    • Ensure to keep your back straight during the lift.
    • Engage your core to maintain stability.
    • Practice the movement without weight to master the form.

    Barbell Clean and Jerk Alternatives

    Kettlebell Double Push Press

    Kettlebell Double Push Press

    Body Part: Shoulders

    Kettlebell Double Snatch

    Kettlebell Double Snatch

    Body Part: Upper Arms

    Tags

    weightlifting
    strength training
    clean and jerk
    shoulders
    powerlifting
    full body

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