Unlocking the Full Potential of Olympic Lifting Platforms

At Fitness 19, we’re all about making the most out of every piece of equipment in our gym. While Olympic lifting platforms are commonly associated with heavy lifting and advanced weightlifting techniques, they offer far more versatility than you might think.

If you’ve ever found the platform area a bit daunting, you’re not alone. However, these platforms can be beneficial for everyone, from beginners to seasoned athletes. Let’s explore how you can use these platforms in ways you might not have considered, adding new dimensions to your workouts.

When most people think of Olympic lifting platforms, they picture classic strength exercises like the snatch and the clean and jerk. These lifts are foundational for building power and strength, and the platforms are specifically engineered to handle the heavy loads and dynamic movements involved.

At Fitness 19, our platforms are also paired with squat racks, making them a prime spot for squats and deadlifts. The sturdy hardwood surface offers the stability you need for lifting, while the rubber edges ensure that weights can be dropped safely without damaging the floor.

But why stop at the basics? Here are five innovative ways to get even more out of this space:

1. Squats and Deadlifts

The plates, stable lifting surface, and tough rubber boarders make Olympic Lifting platforms perfect for both squats and deadlifts.

This is probably the most common use for these platforms as well and just adding these two lifts to your routine can give you a full body workout hard to match elsewhere!

2. Landmine Lunges and Presses

The landmine attachment pairs perfectly with these platforms and offers a variety of exercises.

While it might not seem like the easiest equipment to use at first, the landmine attachment is incredibly versatile and a valuable addition to your workout routine. Feel free to ask one of our personal trainers for a quick demonstration to make the most of it!

3. Shoulder Press

All variations of the barbell shoulder press work seamlessly with these platforms due to the squat rack setup.

You can adjust the pins to a similar height as you would for a squat, possibly one notch lower. Check out some of our favorite pressing variations to incorporate into your routine!

Don't forget to set up the safety bars to protect yourself in case the weight is dropped from overhead!

4. Other Barbell Lifts

Beyond the obvious lifts, Olympic platforms are ideal for a range of barbell exercises.

Use the safety bars in the squat rack for secure overhead presses or rack pulls.

You can also incorporate accessories like a bench or, as we mentioned earlier, the  Landmine attachment,

Glute bridges, weighted lunges, and barbell rows all work well in this environment as well.

At Fitness 19, we encourage you to think creatively about how you use the equipment available to you. By reimagining the Olympic lifting platform as more than just a spot for heavy lifts, you can expand your workout repertoire and keep your fitness routine fresh and exciting.

Next time you hit the gym, don’t hesitate to try one of these unique approaches on the Olympic lifting platform—you might just discover a new favorite workout space!