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Power Clean guide
The Power Clean is a advanced-level compound barbell exercise that primarily targets the Full Body. Set up with a braced, stable base, move through a full range of motion under control, and progressively add weight or reps over time to keep getting stronger.
What muscles does the power clean work?
The Power Clean primarily trains the Full Body, recruiting the surrounding full body musculature and supporting muscles as a compound lift. Train it as part of a balanced full body routine.
How do you do the power clean?
To do the Power Clean: set up at the barbell with a stable, braced position — feet planted and core tight; take a grip or stance that lets your full body drive the movement through its full range of motion; lower under control, then drive back to the start, keeping tension on the full body; avoid momentum, breathe through each rep, and stop 1–2 reps short of failure on most working sets.
- Set up at the barbell with a stable, braced position — feet planted and core tight.
- Take a grip or stance that lets your full body drive the movement through its full range of motion.
- Lower under control, then drive back to the start, keeping tension on the full body.
- Avoid momentum, breathe through each rep, and stop 1–2 reps short of failure on most working sets.
What are the most common power clean mistakes?
- Using momentum or bouncing instead of controlled tension.
- Cutting the range of motion short to move more weight.
- Adding load before the current weight is clean for every rep.
Power Clean alternatives
Power Clean FAQ.
What muscles does the Power Clean work?
The Power Clean primarily targets the Full Body, training the Full Body as the main muscle group, along with supporting muscles as a compound movement.
Is the Power Clean a compound or isolation exercise?
The Power Clean is a compound exercise — it works multiple muscles and joints at once, so you can load it heavily.
What equipment do I need for the Power Clean?
You need a barbell. Difficulty is rated advanced.
What are good alternatives to the Power Clean?
Good full body alternatives include Burpee, Thruster, Clean and Jerk.
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