What does the term "power clean" refer to?

The term "power clean" specifically refers to a variation of the clean lift where the barbell is lifted to the shoulders without the athlete needing to squat down to catch the bar. In this lift, the athlete explosively pulls the bar off the ground and then pulls themselves under it to receive the bar at a height above a quarter squat position. The lift emphasizes speed and power, allowing the lifter to catch the bar in a more upright position compared to a full clean.

This distinguishes the power clean from other forms of the clean. For instance, a full squat clean would involve catching the bar in a deep squat position, while options that mention an overhead press or minimal movement do not accurately represent the mechanics and execution of the power clean. Thus, the correct understanding of a power clean is crucial for athletes looking to perform this lift correctly and effectively in their training regimen.