Overhead Position Meaning in Weightlifting

The overhead position describes the state where an athlete holds a barbell above their head with locked arms. This is the final resting point for both the snatch and the jerk movements in a competition. The bar must sit directly over the ears and the shoulders to maintain a stable center of gravity. Proper alignment ensures the weight feels light and balanced rather than pulling the athlete forward or backward. A weightlifter holds the heavy bar steady overhead until the referees give the signal to drop it down. Developing a strong overhead position requires significant upper body stability and the ability to lock the elbows completely. Success in this position is mandatory for a lift to be counted as a valid white light.