What is the term used for the position where athletes prepare to lift the bar from the platform?

The term "Start Position" refers to the specific stance and posture that athletes adopt before initiating a lift from the platform. In this position, the lifter is typically set up with their feet shoulder-width apart, bar positioned over the mid-foot, and body positioned in a way that optimizes tension and positioning for an effective lift. This foundational position is crucial for generating optimal leverage and power as the lift begins. Proper alignment in the start position can significantly affect the athlete's performance and efficiency in the lift, making it a critical component of weightlifting technique.

Other positions, such as the power position or receiving position, refer to different stages or aspects of the lift rather than the initial setup, and the finish position pertains to the end of the lift when the athlete stands up with the bar overhead or at their chest, depending on the lift being performed.