Dear CrossFit, Squat Clean vs. Power Clean, Learn to SQUAT

Today we searched for our 1RM on the C&J.  Little people, and I mean really little people, like cross-country runner little, were cleaning BIG weights b/c they were squat cleaning.  Big guys (e.g., me) were cleaning so-so weights b/c we are big and strong and are able to power clean them.  But, the power clean can only take you so far.  And, I want the box record for the C&J.  Which means I have to improve my squat clean.  Why?  Because everything I’ve read, heard, studied, and witnessed indicates that most competitive weightlifters can only power clean about 80-85% of their squat clean.  So, while I was kinda happy with my 230 power clean today, if that’s only 80% of what I could squat clean, the 230 would be 287.5, which is over the box record.  Problem is, starting to lift after age 50 and after hip replacement has made learning to squat at all a big issue, let alone front squat and squat clean.  After a couple months of practice dedicated solely to learning to squat properly, to where I can now do actual air squats and back squats, it’s time to start working the front squat and then the squat clean.  Squat cleaning requires front squatting.  Front squatting requires squatting.  So if you’re unhappy with your clean (as I am), then get your squat on!  I’ll be the guy working hard on front squat technique and then strength.  Watch out box record, when the front squat is learned and strengthened, and when the squat clean is learned and strengthened, I’m coming for you, with both guns blazing!  This record isn’t going to happen overnight.  It’s going to be another 12 month effort.  But watch out, I’m coming in.  I wonder what tomorrow’s WOD will be…