Quads · Barbell

Power Clean and Press

Floor to shoulders to overhead, one big chain.

Power Clean and Press exercise demonstration
QuadsSecondary: Shoulders, GlutesBarbell

How to do it

  1. Set up over the bar and explosively pull it to your shoulders, catching in a quarter squat.
  2. Stand tall to rack the bar at your shoulders.
  3. Brace your core and press the bar straight overhead.
  4. Lower the bar back to the shoulders, then to the floor, and reset.

The one cue that matters

Drive the clean with the hips and the press with a tight core, no leaning back.

Muscles worked

The Power Clean and Press is a Quads-first movement, with Shoulders, Glutes working as the supporting cast. Track it consistently and you'll see exactly how it feeds your quads volume for the week.

FAQ

What muscles does the Power Clean and Press work?

The Power Clean and Press primarily works the Quads with Shoulders, Glutes assisting.

How heavy should I go?

Pick a weight where you finish each set with 1 to 2 clean reps left in the tank. Own the top of your rep range before adding weight.

How many sets and reps of Power Clean and Press?

For most lifters 3 to 4 working sets. Pick the rep range that fits your goal and progress the load when the top of the range feels owned.

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