Jerk blocks are a versatile training apparatus used to build strength and improve technique in your Olympic weightlifting movements. You will rarely find an Olympic weightlifter who doesn’t incorporate jerk blocks into their training regime. They are becoming a popular item not only in weightlifting facilities but also CrossFit gyms across the world.
The advantage jerk blocks have over resetting back into the rig is the bar can be dropped back onto the blocks at chest height after heavy lifts. Having the bar set up on the blocks makes reloading easier and more efficient so not to exert unnecessary energy trying to clean a heavy bar back into the front rack or back rack position. This also helps reduce the onset of pain in elbows or shoulders trying to lower heavy weights down onto your back.
The Hippy Chippy Jerk Block Set consists of 2 stacks of 15” blocks, 12” blocks, 6” blocks and 2.5” plates. All blocks are stackable and interchangeable. This allows them to be set up at various heights for training technique, as well as building pull strength at different starting points.
Set at chest height, jerk blocks can be used for dip training and jerk or overhead technique training. It allows for quick repetitions of heavy weights that is almost impossible when lifting from the ground. A max lift can be performed in sets of 3 rather than as a 1RM. It also allows for faster recovery after missed lifts and corrections to be made while the muscle memory is fresh.
Set at knee or shin height, pull blocks allow a higher start position for the clean and the snatch. This puts emphasis and focus on the second pull motion. Using the pull blocks will help improve your explosive power, speed and pull strength at those crucial points in your lifts.
Other benefits of the jerk blocks worth mentioning when training heavy lifts include; noise reduction of dropped weights. No damage is done to gym matting or flooring. The blocks are mobile and can be set up anywhere in your gym with ease. There are lots of height variations to suit different lifts, starting points, technique training and athlete height.