It is not required by the rules, but everyone uses it because it's so effective. Very few people have grip strength to do a max snatch or clean and jerk with natural grip, just as very few powerlifters use a natural grip in deadlift.
Why do Olympic lifters use hook grip?
The hook grip is used in Olympic lifting because it is a more secure grip than a conventional overhand or traditional grip. The hook grip is utilized during the snatch and the clean and jerk. The lifter can exert up to three times greater force than the weight of the bar when it rests on the ground.15 Jan 2019
What grip do all weightlifters use?
THE HOOK GRIP
Is hook grip allowed in powerlifting?
One of the more popular exercises that benefit from a hook grip is the deadlift. Since lifting straps are illegal in powerlifting competitions, the hook grip can help create a stronger, competition-ready grip.10 Jan 2022
What lifts should you use a hook grip?
Hook Grip should be used for power movements moving weight quickly. When lifting heavy weights in strength movements, the hook grip isn't needed. Think about a bench press, shoulder press, back squat, or deadlift. Slow and controlled movements don't require a hook grip to secure the barbell.7 May 2018
Can you lift more with hook grip?
The additional friction of the thumb against the bar makes the hook grip a stronger grip than the double overhand grip. For these reasons, I encourage all my lifters to train their deadlift with a hook grip when the weight becomes heavy enough that they can no longer pull with a double overhand grip.14 Mar 2017
Do weightlifters use hook grip?
The hook grip is necessary (but not required) for weightlifting competition. It's also not necessary for all weightlifting training exercises.24 May 2021
When should you not use hook grip?
When lifting heavy weights in strength movements, the hook grip isn't needed. Think about a bench press, shoulder press, back squat, or deadlift. Slow and controlled movements don't require a hook grip to secure the barbell.7 May 2018
What is the advantage of hook grip?
With the hook grip, the thumb is able to wrap farther around the bar than in a regular overhand grip, while the fingers are still able to wrap considerably, allowing more overall contribution to grip security. The hook grip also creates a system that balances the tendency of the bar to roll.23 Apr 2018
Is hook grip the strongest grip?
The additional friction of the thumb against the bar makes the hook grip a stronger grip than the double overhand grip. Because both hands are pronated in the hook grip, the stresses on the shoulders are symmetrical, the risk of a biceps tendon avulsion is greatly reduced, and it is easier to keep the bar on the legs.14 Mar 2017