Weight Classes

Competitors compete in one of eight (seven for women) divisions determined by their body mass. The men's classes are:

• 56 kg
• 62 kg
• 69 kg
• 77 kg
• 85 kg
• 94 kg
• 105 kg
• 105+ kg

The women's classes are:

• 48 kg
• 53 kg
• 58 kg
• 63 kg
• 69 kg
• 75 kg
• 75+ kg

In each weight division, competitors compete in both the snatch and clean and jerk, and prizes are usually given for the heaviest weights lifted in the snatch, clean and jerk, and the two combined.

The order of the competition is decided by the lifters - the competitor who chooses to attempt the lowest weight goes first. If they are unsuccessful at that weight, they have the option of reattempting that lift, or trying a heavier weight later (after any other competitors have made attempts at that weight or any intermediate weights).

Weights are set in 1 kilogram increments (previously 2.5kg increments), and each lifter can have a maximum of three lifts, regardless of whether lifts are successful or not.

Weightlifting can be an awe-inspiring spectator sport, as competitors expend massive psychological and physical efforts to lift weights over twice their own body weight.