What To Know
- The overhead press is a common exercise in the world of fitness, but it is often debated whether or not it should be considered a powerlifting movement.
- In this blog post, we will delve into the reasons why the overhead press is not typically categorized as a powerlifting exercise.
- While the overhead press is a valuable exercise for building strength and muscle, it is not typically considered a powerlifting movement due to its different movement pattern, lack of weight, training goals, and judging criteria.
The overhead press is a common exercise in the world of fitness, but it is often debated whether or not it should be considered a powerlifting movement. In this blog post, we will delve into the reasons why the overhead press is not typically categorized as a powerlifting exercise.
Defining Powerlifting
Powerlifting is a competitive sport that involves three primary lifts: the squat, bench press, and deadlift. These lifts are judged based on the maximum weight lifted in a single repetition. Powerlifting is a test of raw strength and is often associated with large, muscular individuals.
Why Overhead Press Is Not Powerlifting
There are several key reasons why the overhead press is not typically considered a powerlifting movement:
1. Different Movement Pattern
Powerlifting movements are all compound exercises that involve multiple muscle groups. The squat, bench press, and deadlift all involve the legs, back, and core. The overhead press, on the other hand, is primarily an upper body exercise that targets the shoulders, triceps, and upper back.
2. Lack of Weight
The weights used in powerlifting are typically much heavier than those used in the overhead press. Powerlifters often lift weights that exceed their body weight, while overhead press weights are typically much lighter. This is due to the fact that the overhead press is a more technical lift that requires more stability and coordination.
3. Different Training Goals
Powerlifting training is focused on developing maximal strength and power. The goal is to lift as much weight as possible in a single repetition. Overhead press training, on the other hand, is often used to build muscle and improve shoulder stability.
4. Different Equipment
Powerlifting is typically performed with a barbell and weight plates. The overhead press can be performed with a barbell, dumbbells, or kettlebells. The type of equipment used can affect the difficulty of the lift and the muscles that are targeted.
5. Different Judging Criteria
In powerlifting competitions, the lifts are judged based on the maximum weight lifted in a single repetition. In overhead press competitions, the lifts are often judged based on the number of repetitions performed with a given weight.
6. Different Body Types
Powerlifting is often associated with larger, muscular individuals. Overhead press is an exercise that can be performed by people of all body types, including those who are not particularly muscular.
Summary
While the overhead press is a valuable exercise for building strength and muscle, it is not typically considered a powerlifting movement due to its different movement pattern, lack of weight, training goals, and judging criteria. Powerlifting is a specific sport that requires a unique set of skills and training methods.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Can I still do overhead press if I want to be a powerlifter?
A: Yes, overhead press can be a beneficial accessory exercise for powerlifters to improve shoulder stability and strength. However, it is not essential for powerlifting success.
Q: What exercises are better for powerlifting than overhead press?
A: The three main powerlifting lifts (squat, bench press, deadlift) are the best exercises for developing powerlifting strength. Other exercises that can be beneficial include the leg press, pull-ups, and rows.
Q: Can I use the same weight for overhead press as I do for bench press?
A: No, the overhead press typically requires a lighter weight than the bench press. This is because the overhead press is a more technical lift that requires more stability and coordination.
