USA Weightlifting

The Level 1 Weightlifting Coach (formerly Club Coach) Course is no longer offered by USAW.

Why is the Club Coach Course not offered any more?

The old Club Coach Certification contained information such as technical rules which were more detailed than many desired in an introductory technical course. As a response to both of these concerns and in an effort to offer a course specifically designed to introduce strength & conditioning and fitness professionals, as well as beginning weightlifting coaches to the basics of weightlifting technique, the new course was introduced. Conversely, old Sports Performance Certification was not oriented specifically toward a detailed analysis of Olympic lifting as one would expect from a USA Weightlifting course. This was a concern for many strength & conditioning and fitness professionals that took it, as they desired to progress all the way through full Snatch and Clean & Jerk.

Is my Club Coach Certification still recognized by USAW?

Yes, USAW still honors the Club Coach Certification (now called Level 1 Weightlifting Coach), but no new Club Coach Certifications will be given out.

What do I do when my Level 1 Weightlifting Coach Certification expires?

You have a couple options:

1. Recertify yourself as a Level 1 Weightlifting Coach by taking the recertification test and background check, and paying a $85/year fee. Click here for the Recertification Instruction Page.
2. Take the Level 1 Sport Performance Certification Course. If your Level 1 Weightlifting Coach certification is current, you may take the Level 1 Sport Performance Course for a discounted rate of $245 off the course fee and become certified as a Level 1 Sport Performance Coach. Click here for details on the  Level 1 Sport Performance Certification

Can I still recertify myself as a Level 1 Weightlifting Coach?

Yes, since USAW still honors the Level 1 Weightlifting Coach Certification you can recertify as a USAW Level 1 Weightlifting Coach when your current certification expires.

How do I renew my Level 1 Weightlifting Coach Certification?

To renew your Level 1 Weightlifting Coach Certification, please check out the coaching course recertification page.

Can I be a coach for a different club than I lift for?

Yes, your membership represents the club that you are attached to as a lifter, not as a coach. You can be attached to one club as an athlete and also coach for another club.

What is the next level course I can take if I only have a Level 1 Weightlifting Coach Certification?

If you are currently certified as a Level 1 Weightlifting Coach you are eligible to take the USAW Level 2 Senior Coach Certification without taking the Level 1 Sport Performance Certification.