I’m 14 and went to my first powerlifting gym today

[joeq7]

I’ve been lifting for 6 or 7 months now and I have pretty decent stats, I was getting bored of my commercial gym that I normally go to because I couldn’t really do the things I like, so I searched for powerlifting gyms in my area and found one. Today I went there for the first time and had a pretty good workout. I am into weightlifting (clean, jerk, snatch) mostly so having my own area to lift was great. Any tips for a beginner like me? Was it the right decision to switch?

[PhDPepper1111]

Congrats!
The obvious answer is yes! You do what works for you!
I suppose the question is the typical one about serious training for younger folk.
As long as you work with trainers/coaches and don't truly abuse yourself or limit food so much that it stunts growth I say go for it!

[joewattie]

I’ve been lifting for 6 or 7 months now and I have pretty decent stats, I was getting bored of my commercial gym that I normally go to because I couldn’t really do the things I like, so I searched for powerlifting gyms in my area and found one. Today I went there for the first time and had a pretty good workout. I am into weightlifting (clean, jerk, snatch) mostly so having my own area to lift was great. Any tips for a beginner like me? Was it the right decision to switch?

I like that you like the Olympic Style lifts. Like Power Lifting you need strength but you also need speed and athleticism. You take a weight that you can't quite lift, lift it as high as you can then jump underneath it and try to catch it before it falls to the ground.

You don't see much Olympic Style Lifting anymore but at your new gym you've a far better chance of running into other Olympic Style Lifters. You've a better chance of learning with others than on your own.

I also prefer the physique of Olympic Style Lifters as compared to Body Builders or even Power Lifters. More athletic looking, like a gymnast for example, as opposed to that bulky or bloated look.

Best of luck to you!

PS There is a sub-thread for Olympic Lifting under the Workout Program Thread.

[rozajav]

I'm happy for you and it's certainly the right decision. I regret that I started my journey a little late, and it would be good to join powerlifting gym at 14. You're on the right track.