Press Behind Neck, Wide Grip
Overview
The Press Behind Neck with a wide grip is an exercise that introduces the beginner to the width of grip for the Snatch and the position of the bar overhead with arms fully extended. A key objective of this exercise is for learners to understand the importance of pushing the bar as high as possible to cause the shoulders to extend upwards. This shoulder action creates a strong lockout of the elbows, a critical ability in Olympic Weightlifting.
Key Coaching Points
- Use a wide grip suitable for the Snatch. See illustration below for minimum grip with for beginners. However, a grip that is 5-6 cm wider than shown would be more suitable.
- Push the bar as high as possible to extend the shoulders and maintain upward pressure on the bar for a count of 4 to develop isometric strength in the shoulders and arms. Olympic Weightlifters must be able to support heavy weights overhead for several seconds to gain control and await the referees’ down signal.
- The bar should be held directly above the crown of the head, not behind the head.
