Weightlifting is not an expensive sport to get started in. You need some basic personal equipment and a gym in which to train. Most people already own, or can very inexpensively obtain, much of the personal equipment they require.
When it comes to a training facility, you can either join an appropriately equipped gym or purchase equipment and create your own training space.
Another very important resource in weightlifting is a coach. While athletes have reached very high levels in the sport with limited coaching support, a lack of guidance from an experienced coach or lifter can certainly be a drawback. No book or article can completely replace the feedback that an experienced coach can provide.
Personal Weightlifting Equipment
There is a certain amount of personal equipment that every weightlifter should use or at least own so that it is available should the need arise. Other items are optional or are needed only by athletes in particular situations.
Some equipment is used only in training, other equipment is typically used only in competition, and still other equipment is used in both training and competition.
The following guides explain the kinds and purposes of personal weightlifting equipment, along with information on selecting, using and maintaining each item:
- Lifting Suit
- Sweatsuits and T-shirts
- Socks
- Briefs and Shorts
- Sport Bras
- Straps
- Lifting Belts
- Weightlifting Shoes
- Tape
- Talcum Powder and Other Lubricants
- Magnesium Carbonate (Chalk) and Rosin
- Knee Wraps
- Wrist Wraps
- Hip Pads
- Soap and the First Aid Kit
- Gloves
- The Well Equipped Gym Bag
Gym Equipment
In addition to personal equipment, weightlifters need a gym in which to train. When it comes to a training facility, you can either join an appropriately equipped gym or buy equipment, build some other equipment, and start your own gym.
The equipment used in a weightlifting gym should be selected carefully. Some pieces are essential to Olympic-style weightlifting, while others can improve the safety, effectiveness, and versatility of the training environment.
Explore each piece of gym equipment below for more information on selecting, using, and maintaining it safely and effectively:
- Bar
- Plates
- Collars
- Platform
- Squat Racks
- Power Rack
- Jerk Boxes
- Pulling Blocks
- A Block to Stand On
- Using “The Ropes”
- Grip Development Devices
- Height Gauge
- The Training Facility
