FRG26 PSLL ENGAGE Participation Pratical Weightlifting

As part of their Erasmus program, the students had the opportunity to participate in a weightlifting initiation morning at the CREPS, a center renowned for training elite athletes and sports professionals. This sporting and cultural activity aimed to introduce them to a demanding Olympic discipline while highlighting the core values ​​of Olympism: respect, pushing one's limits, perseverance, teamwork, and excellence. The session was led by Yannik Derrick and Jean-Claude Collinot, two passionate and experienced instructors who enthusiastically shared their knowledge of weightlifting and their experience in the world of sports. From the start of the morning, they presented the fundamental principles of this Olympic discipline, safety guidelines, and the importance of technique and concentration in practicing this sport. The students began the workshop with a thorough and progressive warm-up. Through various mobility, balance, and muscle-strengthening exercises, they prepared their bodies for exertion while discovering the importance of physical conditioning before any sporting activity. This first step also fostered a positive group dynamic and built the participants' confidence. After this warm-up, the students were introduced to the two most iconic weightlifting movements: the snatch and the clean and jerk. Initially, the technical movements were practiced using only the barbell to understand the postures, positioning, and coordination of the movements. The instructors emphasized precision, control, and posture, essential in this discipline where technique is as important as physical strength. Once the basics were mastered, the participants gradually added light plastic weights. This step allowed them to gain confidence and better feel the movements while maintaining proper form. Finally, the students had the opportunity to use real weights suited to their skill level, which made the experience even more tangible and motivating. Each student was able to progress at their own pace, encouraged by the instructors' guidance and the support of the group. Throughout the morning, the students demonstrated great commitment, focus, and teamwork. They discovered that weightlifting is not solely based on strength, but also on discipline, self-control, and perseverance. This introduction was a true immersion into the world of Olympic sport and allowed participants to better understand the human values ​​embodied by Olympism. This sporting experience was also a moment of sharing and exchange among the students from different countries participating in the Erasmus program. Beyond the technical aspects, this morning will remain a memorable experience, rich in learning, emotions, and personal achievement.