USA Weightlifting

The Sport Performance Coach Course is no longer offered by USAW.

Why is the Sport Performance Course not offered any more?

The old Sport 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. Conversely, 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.

Is my Sport Performance Certification still recognized by USAW?

Yes, USAW still honors the Sports Performance Certification, but no new Sports Performance Certifications will be given out.

What do I do when my Sport Performance Certification expires?

You have a couple options:

1. Recertify yourself as a Sport Performance Coach by taking the recertification test and paying a $85/year fee. Click here to go to the Recertification Instruction Page.
2. Take the Level 1 Sport Performance Certification Course. If your Sport Performance 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 to go to the Level 1 Sport Performance Certification page.

Can I still recertify myself as a Sport Performance Coach?

Yes, since USAW still honors the Sport Performance Coach Certification you can recertify as a USAW Sports Performance Coach when your current certification expires.

How do I renew my Sport Performance Certification?

To renew your Sport Performance Certification, please check out the coaching course recertification page.

What is the next level course I can take if I only have a Sport Performance Certification?

If you are currently certified as a Sport Performance Coach you are eligible to take the USAW Level 1 Sport Performance Coach Certification.

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 run/coach for another club.