Atlas
Power Jerk: starting position Power Jerk: end position

Olympic Lifts · Quads

Power Jerk

A olympic lifts exercise that works the quads. Advanced level, using barbell & rack.

AdvancedBarbell & rackGym

Muscles worked

PrimaryQuads
SecondaryAbs, Calves (gastrocnemius & soleus), Glutes, Hamstrings, Shoulders

Quads, shoulders, and triceps.

Technical lift: the photos show the start and end positions. Learn the full bar path with a coach.

Setup and loading

Bar in the front rack.

How to do the power jerk step by step

  1. Bar on your shoulders.
  2. Short, vertical knee dip.
  3. Drive hard and catch with your knees bent.

Form cues

  • Vertical dip
  • Lock out fast

Common mistakes

  • Pushing the bar forward
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Sets and reps for your goal

Power

4-6 x 2-5 · full rest

3-6 sets of 1-5 reps with light or moderate loads (30-60% of your max on the main lifts), or with a ball or your bodyweight. Rest 2 to 3 minutes.

Every rep at the highest possible speed. As soon as you notice it moving slower (a 10-20% velocity loss), end the set. Train power fresh, never fatigued.

Max Strength

4-5 x 3-6 · rest 2-3 min

3-6 sets of 1-6 reps at 80-90% of your max (1RM). Rest 2 to 5 minutes.

Leave 1-3 reps in reserve. If your technique breaks down, lower the weight: strength is built with good reps.

A guide for healthy adults. Adjust the load to your level and see a professional if you have an injury.

Check your form

Film yourself from the side or ask someone to watch, then tick what you get right.

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Sports it suits

Gear for this exercise

  • Olympic barbell and platesTo keep progressing on the big lifts with heavy loads.

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Variations and similar exercises

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