Block Power-Clean
Build explosive strength! The Block Power-Clean isolates your power zone for targeted muscle engagement. Level up your clean technique!
The Block Power-Clean is a compound exercise that mainly works the quads and back, with help from the glutes & hips and traps. You'll need: barbell or lifting blocks or weight plates.
Required Equipment



Block Power-Clean Muscles Worked
Primary
Quads (quadriceps femoris); Lats (latissimus dorsi)
Secondary
Glutes (gluteus maximus); Mid Traps (trapezius, middle fibers)
Block Power-Clean Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Block Power-Clean
Set up lifting blocks so that the barbell, loaded with the appropriate weight plates, rests at mid-thigh level.
Stand with your feet hip-width apart, approaching the barbell which is resting on the blocks.
Bend at the hips and knees to grasp the barbell with an overhand grip, slightly wider than shoulder-width.
Ensure your back is straight, and your shoulders are just slightly in front of the bar with your chest up and eyes looking ahead.
Initiate the lift by driving with your legs, extending your hips and knees to generate upward momentum on the barbell.
As the bar rises to the high pull phase (just above the knees), shrug your shoulders and begin to pull with your arms, keeping the bar close to your body.
Continue to extend your hips and legs explosively, and as the bar approaches the upper part of your abdomen, rotate your elbows around and under the bar quickly.
Catch the barbell across the front of your shoulders while rotating your wrists under, with your elbows high and pointing forward. Simultaneously, drop into a partial squat position to absorb the weight.
Stand up by extending your hips and knees, bringing the barbell to a stable position resting on your shoulders.
Lower the barbell back to the blocks carefully and reset for your next repetition.
Safety Tips: Perform this exercise with proficiency in the basic power clean technique before attempting from blocks. Use a weight that is manageable for your strength and skill level. Ensure that the blocks are stable and can support the weight of your loaded barbell. Always keep your core tight and back straight during the lift to protect your spine. Consult with a fitness professional if you are unfamiliar with this lift to ensure proper form and safety.
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Block Power-Clean FAQs
What muscles does the Block Power-Clean work?
The Block Power-Clean mainly works the quads and back, with help from the glutes & hips and traps. The main muscles are the quadriceps femoris and latissimus dorsi.
What equipment do you need for the Block Power-Clean?
Barbell or lifting blocks or weight plates.
Is the Block Power-Clean a compound exercise?
Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.
What workout day should the Block Power-Clean go on?
It belongs on pull day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Block Power-Clean variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Barbell Clean High Pull, Barbell Clean Pull, Barbell Block Conventional Deadlift and Barbell Clean Full.
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