Movement overview

The Hang Power Clean is a dynamic weightlifting exercise that primarily targets the muscles of the posterior chain, including the hamstrings, glutes, and lower back, as well as the shoulders and arms. It involves lifting a barbell from a hanging position to the shoulders in one explosive movement.

Step-by-step cues

1. Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and holding a barbell with an overhand grip just outside your thighs.
2. Bend slightly at the hips and knees, lowering the barbell to just above your knees. This is your starting position.
3. Explosively extend your hips and knees while pulling the barbell upward, keeping it close to your body.
4. As the bar reaches chest height, rotate your elbows under the bar and catch it on your shoulders in a quarter squat position.
5. Stand up straight to complete the movement, then lower the barbell back to the starting position for the next repetition.

Technical tips

• Keep your core engaged throughout the movement to maintain stability and protect your lower back.
• Focus on using your hips and legs to generate power rather than pulling with your arms.
• Ensure that the barbell stays close to your body during the lift to maximize efficiency and control.
• Practice proper timing by coordinating the hip extension with the pull and catch phases of the lift.
• Start with lighter weights to perfect your form before progressing to heavier loads.