USA Weightlifting

Membership FAQ's

What Is USA Weightlifting?
USA Weightlifting (USAW) is the National Governing Body (NGB) for Olympic weightlifting in the United States.
USAW is a member of the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) and a member of the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF).
As the NGB, USAW is responsible for conducting Olympic weightlifting programs throughout the country.
Top competitors are selected by USAW to compete in all major International Events, such as the Olympic Games, World Championships, World Junior Championships and Pan American Games.
How Many Members Does USAW Have?
Currently there are about 7,000 active USAW members. These members include athletes, coaches, referees and volunteers.
What Are the Membership Categories?
USAW currently has 6 different membership categories:
  • Athlete
  • Technical
  • General
  • Sustaining
  • Olympic
  • Organizational Grassroots
What Are the Membership Benefits?
  • Discounts on merchandise during E-Store Promotions
  • Secondary Sport Accident & General Liability Insurance
  • Training opportunities with coaches and club teams
  • Competition opportunities open to members only
  • Discounts on travel to USAW sanctioned events through United Airlines
How Do I Join USA Weightlifting?

*Anyone can join USAW and apply through our website*

How Do I Renew My Membership?
  • Log in to your membership account and click 'Renew Membership' on your membership profile page.
If you are a certified coach, please follow these directions to renew and recertify.
How Many Weightlifting Clubs Are There and How Do I Find One in My Area?
There are over 250 Weightlifting Clubs throughout the US.
To find one in your area go to Find A Club. Once you've found your state, click to find where your closest club is located and contact them directly!
Do I Have to Be a Member of USAW to Join a Local Club?
Each club varies and some will allow people to lift at their club without a USAW membership.
But remember, non-USAW club members are not covered by the USAW Accident Insurance and you must be a member to compete in USAW sanctioned meets.
Do I Have to Be a Member of USAW to Compete in USAW Events?
Yes, in order to compete in any event sanctioned by USAW, you must be a current USAW member.
How Do I Find Out About USAW Events in My Area?
  • Click on the Events tab on the main page of the website.
  • Use the search tabs provided to find events in your area.
Is Weightlifting Safe for Kids?
Absolutely. For more in-depth information about this, click here.
Where is the USA Weightlifting National Office?
The USAW National Office is located in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
USA Weightlifting Inc.
1 Olympic Plaza
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
Phone: 719-866-4508
Fax: 719-866-4741
Email: usaw@usaweightlifting.org