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Axle Clean And Press: Get Strong and Powerful!

Are you looking to build strength and power in your upper body and improve your Olympic lifting skills? Look no further than the Axle Clean And Press! This exercise is a challenging movement that targets your shoulders, back, and arms while also improving your power and explosiveness. Here at FitGAG, we’ve put together an expert guide to help you get the most out of your Axle Clean And Press. Get ready to get strong and powerful!

Table of Contents

Exercise Information

The Axle Clean and Press, also known as the Log Clean and Press, is a compound exercise that targets the shoulders, back, and arms. This exercise involves lifting a weighted log or axle from the ground and pressing it overhead in a controlled motion, providing a full range of motion and increased muscle activation in the upper body. Let’s dive into some general information about this exercise:

Level

The Axle Clean and Press is an intermediate-to-advanced exercise that is suitable for individuals with some experience in resistance training.

Equipment

To perform the Axle Clean and Press, you will need a weighted log or axle.

Type of Exercise

The Axle Clean and Press is a compound exercise that targets the shoulders, back, and arms. It involves multiple joints and muscle groups working together to perform the movement.

Axle Clean and Press: Working Muscles

The Axle Clean and Press is a compound exercise that targets the muscles of the back, shoulders, legs, and arms. This exercise involves lifting an axle barbell from the ground, cleaning it to the chest, and pressing it overhead. In this section, we will discuss the primary and secondary muscle groups that are involved during the Axle Clean and Press exercise.

Primary Muscle Group: Shoulders and Legs

The primary muscle groups targeted during the Axle Clean and Press exercise are the shoulders and legs. The deltoid muscles, consisting of the anterior, middle, and posterior deltoids, are responsible for shoulder abduction, flexion, and extension, and are engaged during the pressing phase of the exercise. The quadriceps muscles, located on the front of the thighs, are responsible for knee extension and are engaged during the clean and drive phase of the exercise.

Secondary Muscle Group: Back and Arms

In addition to the primary muscle groups, the Axle Clean and Press exercise also engages the back and arm muscles. The trapezius muscles, located on the upper back, are responsible for shoulder elevation and are engaged during the clean and catch phase of the exercise. The biceps brachii muscle, located on the front of the upper arm, is responsible for elbow flexion and is engaged during the catch and clean phase of the exercise. The triceps brachii muscle, located on the back of the upper arm, is responsible for elbow extension and is engaged during the pressing phase of the exercise.

By engaging both the primary and secondary muscle groups, the Axle Clean and Press exercise provides a comprehensive full-body workout. This makes it an effective exercise for building total body strength and endurance, improving posture and alignment, and developing a toned and muscular physique.

Stay tuned for the next section, where we will discuss the benefits of the Axle Clean and Press exercise.

Benefits of Axle Clean And Press

Axle Clean And Press is a compound exercise that targets multiple muscle groups and offers several benefits. Here are five benefits of incorporating this exercise into your fitness routine:

  • Improved Full-Body Strength: Axle Clean And Press targets multiple muscle groups, including your legs, back, core, shoulders, and arms, which can help improve your overall full-body strength and size.
  • Enhanced Muscle Recruitment: Axle Clean And Press engages more muscles in your body, which can help improve overall functional strength and movement patterns.
  • Increased Power Output: Axle Clean And Press is a power exercise that can help improve your overall power output and explosiveness.
  • Improved Grip Strength: Axle Clean And Press requires a strong grip, which can help improve your overall grip strength and performance in other exercises.
  • Variation and Progression: Axle Clean And Press can add variation to your strength training routine, which can help prevent boredom and stimulate new muscle growth. Additionally, the exercise can be made more challenging by increasing the weight of the axle or the number of reps.

By incorporating Axle Clean And Press into your fitness routine, you can enjoy these benefits and more. However, it’s important to start slowly and progress gradually to avoid injury and ensure proper form. Additionally, it’s important to incorporate a variety of exercises into your fitness routine to ensure you’re targeting all muscle groups and avoiding boredom.

Axle Clean and Press: Step-by-Step Instructions

The axle clean and press is a compound exercise that targets multiple muscle groups, including the shoulders, back, and legs. Here are the step-by-step instructions for the axle clean and press:

Starting Position:

  • Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, with the axle bar on the ground in front of you.
  • Bend down and grab the bar with an overhand grip, with your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.

Now, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for the axle clean and press:

  1. Begin by lifting the bar off the ground and pulling it up towards your chest.
  2. As the bar reaches your chest, rotate your elbows forward and catch the bar in the front rack position, with your elbows under the bar and your hands still gripping it.
  3. From here, drive the bar up overhead by extending your arms and pushing the bar straight up towards the ceiling.
  4. Lower the bar back down to the front rack position, then back down to the ground.

Repeat the movement for the desired number of repetitions.

Axle Clean and Press – Proper Form and Technique

The Axle Clean and Press is a compound exercise that targets the entire body, with an emphasis on the shoulders, back, and legs. This exercise is performed using an Axle barbell, and proper form and technique are important to avoid injury and achieve maximum results.

Starting Position

  • Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, with the Axle barbell on the ground in front of you.
  • Squat down and grip the bar with your hands shoulder-width apart.
  • Your knees should be bent, and your back should be straight.

Proper Form and Technique

  • Clean the Bar: Lift the bar up off the ground using your legs, hips, and back, and clean it to your shoulders in one smooth motion.
  • Press the Bar: Press the bar overhead using your shoulders, back, and arms, extending your arms fully.
  • Lower the Bar: Lower the bar back down to your shoulders and then to the ground, using the same clean motion to lower the bar as you used to lift it.
  • Repeat: Repeat the exercise for 5 to 10 repetitions, focusing on maintaining proper form and breathing deeply.
  • Keep Your Back Straight: Keep your back straight throughout the exercise to avoid straining your lower back.
  • Engage Your Core: Engage your core muscles by pulling your navel towards your spine. This will help you maintain proper form and stability throughout the exercise.
  • Use Your Legs and Hips: Use your legs and hips to generate power and momentum to lift and press the bar.
  • Don’t Overdo It: Be gentle and avoid using too much weight or forcing your back beyond its natural range of motion to avoid injury.
  • Gradually Increase Intensity: Gradually increase the intensity and duration of the exercise over time as your back, hips, and legs become stronger.
  • Incorporate into Your Routine: The Axle Clean and Press can be a great addition to your strength training routine, helping you to build strength and power in your shoulders, back, and legs.

By following these tips, you can perform the Axle Clean and Press with proper form and technique, building and strengthening your entire body effectively while minimizing the risk of injury. Remember to start slowly, focus on your breathing, and gradually increase the difficulty and intensity of the exercise over time.

Frequency and Progression: How to Get the Most Out of Your Axle Clean and Press Workouts

The Axle Clean and Press is a challenging exercise that targets the entire body, particularly the shoulders, back, and core. In this section, we will discuss how to properly incorporate the Axle Clean and Press into your workout routine and how to progress with this exercise over time.

Frequency

To see significant results with the Axle Clean and Press, it is recommended to perform this exercise 1-2 times a week. However, it is important to listen to your body and avoid overtraining. If you feel any pain or discomfort, stop the exercise immediately. You can also alternate between the Axle Clean and Press and other shoulder and back exercises, such as push presses or pull-ups.

Progressive Overload

To progress with the Axle Clean and Press, it is important to gradually increase the weight you are using over time. Start with a lighter weight and gradually increase the weight as you become stronger. Another way to progress is to decrease the rest time between sets or increase the number of repetitions. Gradually increase the weight and reps/sets and avoid adding too much too quickly.

Mix It Up:

To prevent boredom and keep your Axle Clean and Press workouts fresh, it is important to mix up your exercise routine. You can perform Axle Clean and Press with different weights or vary the order in which you perform the exercise. You can also incorporate other shoulder and back exercises, such as push presses or pull-ups.

Proper Form

Proper form is essential when performing Axle Clean and Press to avoid injury and get the most out of the exercise. Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and the axle in front of you. Squat down and grip the axle with an overhand grip, lifting it off the ground with your legs and hips. As you lift the axle, bring it up to your chest and then press it overhead. Lower the axle back down to the starting position and repeat. Keep your core engaged and avoid rounding your back.

Track Your Progress

To ensure you are making progress and staying on track with your Axle Clean and Press workouts, it is important to track your progress. Keep a workout journal or use a fitness app to log the weight, reps, and sets for each exercise. This will help you identify areas where you need to improve and keep you motivated to continue pushing yourself.

Incorporating Axle Clean and Press into your shoulder and back workout routine can be a great way to build strength and improve your overall fitness level. By following these tips for frequency, progressive overload, and proper form, you can ensure that you are getting the most out of your Axle Clean and Press workouts and reaching your fitness goals.

Mistakes of Axle Clean and Press

The axle clean and press is a compound exercise that targets the legs, back, shoulders, and arms. However, like any exercise, there are common mistakes that can reduce its effectiveness and increase the risk of injury. Here are five mistakes to avoid during the axle clean and press exercise:

  • Not using proper form: Using poor form during the axle clean and press exercise can reduce its effectiveness and increase the risk of injury. It’s essential to maintain proper alignment of the shoulders, hips, and knees throughout the exercise.
  • Lifting too heavy: Lifting too heavy during the axle clean and press exercise can increase the risk of injury and reduce its effectiveness. Instead, focus on using a weight that allows you to maintain proper form and use a full range of motion.
  • Not using a full range of motion: Neglecting to use a full range of motion during the axle clean and press exercise can reduce its effectiveness. Make sure to fully squat down and lift the bar to a fully extended position above your head.
  • Not using proper grip: Using an improper grip during the axle clean and press exercise can reduce its effectiveness and increase the risk of injury. Make sure to grip the bar with your fingers and palms to avoid slipping.
  • Not engaging the core: Engaging the core is essential to maintain proper form and prevent injury during the axle clean and press exercise. Failure to engage the core can also reduce the effectiveness of the exercise.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that you are getting the most out of your axle clean and press exercise while reducing the risk of injury. Remember to use proper form, use an appropriate weight, use a full range of motion, use a proper grip, and engage the core throughout the exercise. With consistent practice, you can improve your overall body strength with the axle clean and press exercise.

Variations of Axle Clean and Press: Add Variety to Your Strength Training

The Axle Clean and Press is a challenging exercise that targets your upper body and core muscles, but performing the same exercise every day can become monotonous over time. Here are some variations to add variety to your strength training routine and challenge your muscles in different ways:

Axle Clean and Jerk

This variation involves lifting the Axle from the ground and then pressing it overhead in two stages, using a leg drive to help propel the bar up. Perform the clean first, then use your legs and hips to press the bar overhead in a split or power jerk.

Axle Push Press

This variation involves pressing the Axle overhead using a slight dip and leg drive to help generate momentum. Perform the push press by dipping slightly with your legs, then explosively pressing the bar overhead.

Axle Continental Clean and Press

This variation involves lifting the Axle from the ground and then resting it on your chest before pressing it overhead. Perform the clean by lifting the bar from the ground and then rolling it up your torso until it rests on your chest. From there, press the bar overhead.

Axle Snatch

This variation involves lifting the Axle from the ground and then pressing it overhead in one explosive motion. Perform the snatch by quickly lifting the bar from the ground and then using your hips and legs to propel the bar overhead.

Axle Floor Press

This variation involves lying on your back and pressing the Axle upwards from your chest. Perform the floor press by lying on your back with the bar resting on your chest, then pressing the bar upwards with your arms.

Incorporating these variations into your Axle Clean and Press routine can help you add variety to your strength training and achieve greater gains in upper body and core strength and power. As always, make sure to use proper form and technique to avoid injury.

Axle Clean and Press: 5 Alternatives to Build Your Full Body Strength

Axle clean and press is a great exercise for building full body strength and power, but if you’re looking to mix up your routine or add some variety, there are plenty of alternatives you can try. In this section, we’ll explore five exercises that target your full body and can help you build strength and power.

Dumbbell Clean and Press

Dumbbell clean and press is a great exercise for targeting the full body and building overall strength and power.

  1. Hold a dumbbell in each hand, palms facing your body.
  2. Pull the dumbbells up to your shoulders, then press them up over your head, locking out your arms.
  3. Lower the dumbbells back down to the starting position and repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Barbell Clean and Press

Barbell clean and press is a great exercise for targeting the full body and building overall strength and power.

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and a barbell on the ground in front of you.
  2. Bend down and grip the bar with your hands shoulder-width apart, then explosively pull the bar up to your shoulders.
  3. Press the bar up over your head, locking out your arms.
  4. Lower the bar back down to the starting position and repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Kettlebell Clean and Press

Kettlebell clean and press is a great exercise for targeting the full body and building overall strength and power.

  1. Hold a kettlebell in one hand, palm facing your body.
  2. Pull the kettlebell up to your shoulder, then press it up over your head, locking out your arm.
  3. Lower the kettlebell back down to the starting position and repeat for the desired number of repetitions, then switch sides.

Sandbag Clean and Press

Sandbag clean and press is a great exercise for targeting the full body and building overall strength and power.

  1. Hold a sandbag in front of your body with both hands, then pull it up to your shoulders.
  2. Press the sandbag up over your head, locking out your arms.
  3. Lower the sandbag back down to the starting position and repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Single-Arm Dumbbell Snatch

Single-arm dumbbell snatch is a great exercise for targeting the full body and building overall strength and power.

  1. Hold a dumbbell in one hand, palm facing your body.
  2. Explosively pull the dumbbell up to your shoulder, then extend your arm up over your head, locking it out.
  3. Lower the dumbbell back down to the starting position and repeat for the desired number of repetitions, then switch sides.

Incorporating these alternatives to axle clean and press into your routine is a great way to target your full body and build strength and power. These exercises require little to no equipment and can be done at home or at the gym. Give them a try and see how they work for you!

Axle Clean and Press: Tips and Tricks for Building Strength and Power

The Axle Clean and Press is a compound exercise that targets your entire body, particularly your shoulders, back, legs, and core. In this section, we’ll share some tips and tricks to help you perform the Axle Clean and Press correctly and get the most out of it.

  • Warm-Up: Before performing the Axle Clean and Press, it’s important to warm up your entire body. You can do this by performing some light cardio or dynamic stretching, such as jumping jacks or leg swings.
  • Use the Right Equipment: To perform the Axle Clean and Press, you need an Axle bar or a thick barbell. Make sure you choose the right weight for your needs and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
  • Proper Form: Maintaining proper form is crucial when performing the Axle Clean and Press. Begin by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and the Axle bar in front of you. Squat down and grasp the bar with an overhand grip, then stand up explosively and lift the bar to your shoulders. From here, press the bar overhead until your arms are fully extended. Lower the bar back down to your shoulders and then to the ground. Repeat the movement for the desired number of repetitions.
  • Engage Your Core: To perform the Axle Clean and Press correctly, you need to engage your core muscles. Take a deep breath and draw your belly button towards your spine. This action stabilizes your core and helps you maintain proper form during the exercise.
  • Move Explosively: The Axle Clean and Press is a power movement. Move the bar explosively from the ground to your shoulders, and then from your shoulders to overhead. This explosive movement helps you build strength and power in your muscles.
  • Use the Right Repetition Range: Aim to perform 2-3 sets of 5-8 reps with the Axle Clean and Press.
  • Mix it Up: Mixing up your Axle Clean and Press routine can help keep your workout fresh and challenging. You can try different variations, such as using different weights or performing the exercise with one arm.
  • Stretch Afterwards: After performing the Axle Clean and Press, it’s important to stretch your entire body. You can do this by stretching your shoulders, back, hips, and legs.
  • Listen to Your Body: As with any exercise, it’s important to listen to your body and avoid pushing beyond your limits. If you feel any discomfort or pain, stop the exercise immediately.

Incorporating these tips and tricks into your Axle Clean and Press routine can help you get the most out of this exercise and achieve stronger and more powerful muscles. Remember to always maintain proper form, engage your core muscles, and listen to your body. With time and practice, you’ll be able to perform the Axle Clean and Press like a pro and enjoy the benefits of a stronger and more powerful body.

Incorporating Axle Clean and Press into Your Workout Routine for Maximum Effect

Axle Clean and Press is a full-body exercise that targets your shoulders, back, legs, and core. Here are some tips to help you incorporate this exercise into your workout routine for maximum effect:

  • Warm-up properly: Before doing Axle Clean and Press, it’s important to warm up your entire body with exercises like jumping jacks, lunges, and light weight rows.
  • Use proper form: To perform Axle Clean and Press, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and grip the axle with both hands. Pull the axle up towards your chest, then explosively press it overhead, locking your elbows at the top. Lower the axle back down with control and repeat for the desired number of reps.
  • Mix up your routine: Don’t just perform Axle Clean and Press in isolation. Mix it up by incorporating other exercises that target your upper and lower body muscles, such as squats, deadlifts, and pull-ups.
  • Use progressive overload: To continue to see progress, you’ll need to use progressive overload, which means gradually increasing the weight or number of reps over time.
  • Don’t overdo it: It’s important to give your muscles time to recover, so don’t overdo it with Axle Clean and Press. Aim to perform the exercise for 2-3 sets, 1-2 times per week.
  • Focus on your breathing: It’s important to regulate your breathing throughout the exercise to ensure that you’re getting enough oxygen to your muscles. Focus on inhaling deeply through your nose as you pull the axle up towards your chest, and exhaling forcefully through your mouth as you press it overhead.
  • Engage your core: To get the most out of Axle Clean and Press, make sure to engage your core muscles, including your abs and lower back. This will help you maintain proper form and prevent injury.
  • Rest between sets: Allow your muscles time to recover between sets. Rest for 60-90 seconds between sets to ensure that you’re performing each rep with proper form.
  • Incorporate Axle Clean and Press into your workout routine: In addition to incorporating Axle Clean and Press into your workout routine, consider doing it as part of a superset or a circuit to challenge your muscles even more.

By incorporating these tips into your workout routine, you’ll be well on your way to maximizing the benefits of Axle Clean and Press and achieving a stronger and more toned body.

Ultimate Workout Plan for Axle Clean and Press

Axle Clean and Press is a compound exercise that targets multiple muscle groups, including the shoulders, back, legs, and core. Here’s a one-week workout plan to help you incorporate Axle Clean and Press into your routine:

Day 1: Warm-up

  • Warm-up: 5-10 minutes of cardio
  • Axle Clean and Press: 3 sets x 8 reps
  • Deadlifts: 3 sets x 10 reps
  • Pull-ups: 3 sets x 10 reps
  • Plank: 3 sets x 30 seconds
  • Cool-down: 5-10 minutes of stretching

Day 2: Rest Day

Day 3: Upper Body

  • Warm-up: 5-10 minutes of cardio
  • Axle Clean and Press: 3 sets x 8 reps
  • Bench Press: 3 sets x 10 reps
  • Bent Over Rows: 3 sets x 10 reps
  • Tricep Dips: 3 sets x 12 reps
  • Cool-down: 5-10 minutes of stretching

Day 4: Rest Day

Day 5: Lower Body

  • Warm-up: 5-10 minutes of cardio
  • Axle Clean and Press: 3 sets x 8 reps
  • Squats: 3 sets x 10 reps
  • Romanian Deadlifts: 3 sets x 10 reps
  • Calf Raises: 3 sets x 15 reps
  • Cool-down: 5-10 minutes of stretching

Day 6: Rest Day

Day 7: Full Body

  • Warm-up: 5-10 minutes of cardio
  • Axle Clean and Press: 3 sets x 8 reps
  • Kettlebell Swings: 3 sets x 10 reps
  • Lunges: 3 sets x 12 reps per leg
  • Side Plank: 3 sets x 30 seconds per side
  • Cool-down: 5-10 minutes of stretching

Remember to maintain proper form and technique when performing Axle Clean and Press. Keep your back straight, core engaged, and use explosive movements. With consistent practice and effort, you’ll be able to build full-body strength effectively with Axle Clean and Press.

Conclusion

Axle Clean And Press is an excellent exercise for anyone looking to build strength and power in their upper body while improving their Olympic lifting skills. However, it’s important to use proper form and start with lighter weights before gradually increasing the intensity to avoid injury and get the most out of the exercise. Remember to keep your movements explosive and controlled throughout the exercise, and engage your upper body muscles for maximum contraction. So, if you’re ready to take your upper body workout to the next level, give Axle Clean And Press a try with our expert guide. Thanks for reading, and keep fit with FitGAG!

Author

  • Timothy P. Carnes

    Timothy P. Carnes is a certified personal trainer with a Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science from the University of Florida. With over 8 years of experience in the fitness industry, Timothy is an expert in strength and conditioning, body composition, and overall health and wellness. He also holds certifications in strength and conditioning through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and corrective exercise through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). As an author at FitGAG, he shares his knowledge and expertise on a variety of topics, including strength training, body composition, and overall health and wellness tips. Timothy believes that consistency and discipline are the keys to achieving fitness goals, and he strives to inspire his readers to prioritize their fitness and wellness journey. Through his articles, Timothy aims to empower his readers to take control of their health, enhance their performance, and live their best lives.

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