Crossfit Trainer Practice Test Level 1

What is a common fault when performing a push jerk?

1. Lack of full hip extension

2. Arms fully extended above head

3. Feet too close together

4. Bar goes behind head

The correct answer is: Lack of full hip extension

In the push jerk, a common fault is the lack of full hip extension. Achieving full hip extension is crucial as it allows the athlete to generate maximum power and force during the drive phase of the movement. When the hips are not fully extended, it means that the body is not reaching its strongest position before the athlete begins to drive the bar upward. This can lead to decreased efficiency and effectiveness in the lift, as well as the potential for compromise in maintaining proper positioning and balance throughout the movement. Full hip extension engages the entire lower body, utilizing the legs and glutes effectively to contribute to the upward momentum of the barbell. Failing to achieve this position necessitates compensatory movements, which can result in improper mechanics and increase the risk of injury. Other potential faults, such as having feet too close together, can affect stability but do not undermine the power generation as fundamentally as lacking hip extension does. Similarly, while having the bar behind the head or arms fully extended above the head can affect the lift, they are not as consistently related to the core mechanics of the push jerk as the hip extension is. Thus, understanding and correcting hip extension is essential for optimal performance in this exercise.