use can lead to weakened connective tissue in the area, increasing the risk of pain and injury. Shoes The type of shoes worn by Olympic weightlifters is perhaps their most distinctive piece of equipment. Weightlifting shoes are typically designed with a raised heel of 0.5" to 1.5" and one or two metatarsal straps that tighten across the instep of the shoe. The raised heel helps the lifter maintain an upright torso while catching the bar and also allows for a deeper squat under the bar. The soles of the shoes are also quite rigid, helping to resist compression while under heavy loads. The shoes are designed for maximum stability while remaining flexible in the toe box. This allows the lifter to come up on the toes and to catch the weight on the ball of the back foot during the "jerk" movement of the lift. See also World Weightlifting Championships Weightlifting at the Summer Olympics List of world records in Olympic weightlifting List of Olympic records in weightlifting List of Olympic medalists in weightlifting Powerlifting Power training Paralympic powerlifting References External links International Weightlifting Federation Swiss Amateur Weightlifting Federation (SAGV/FSHA) Weight classes Individual sports weightlifting Physical exercise ang:Ȝearƿung (indryhtu)#Strengþuȝearƿung