Torokhtiy L-1 Certification Seminar In Antalya (2025): A Deep Dive Into Olympic Weightlifting

This past weekend (February 1-2, 2025), Seven Training Club (Antalya, Turkey) hosted Torokhtiy L-1 Certification Seminar, an in-depth educational experience dedicated to refining the art and science of Olympic weightlifting.

Over two days, 29 athletes, coaches and weightlifting enthusiasts gathered to enhance their technical understanding, improve movement efficiency, and develop structured training methodologies under the expert guidance of Oleksiy Torokhtiy and Sergii Putsov.

Meet the Coaches

Oleksiy Torokhtiy

A 2-time Olympian (Beijing 2008, London 2012), Oleksiy is a world-renowned weightlifting expert, coach and content creator. His coaching philosophy blends biomechanics, technical refinement and intelligent programming, making him one of the most in demand educators in the sport.

Sergii Putsov

With extensive experience in Olympic weightlifting and PhD in sports science, Sergii is a specialist in training methodology and biomechanics. A former elite athlete and coach, he plays a crucial role in developing weightlifting educational programs, helping athletes refine their technique and maximize performance.

An Interactive Learning Experience

The seminar combined theory and practice, allowing participants to analyze key concepts, apply them under expert supervision, and engage in discussions with the presenters. The interactive format ensured that attendees not only received knowledge but also learned how to implement it effectively.

Inside the Torokhtiy L-1 Seminar

The L-1 course is specifically designed for weightlifters, coaches and fitness trainers aiming to enhance their understanding of technique, biomechanics, and training methodology. The goal is to answer the essential question: “How to train athletes or yourself efficiently?”

Key Learning Modules:

✅ Biomechanics & Technique – Learn how to adjust Olympic lifts for different body types.
✅ Mistake Identification – Spot and correct errors efficiently to maximize lift efficiency.
✅ Training Programming – Develop structured training plans for any level of athlete.
✅ L-1 Certification Test – Validate your skills and coaching expertise.

Seminar Breakdown: Day-by-Day Overview

📅 Day 1: The Fundamentals of the Olympic Lifts

🔹 Snatch Biomechanics & Progression

The first session focused on the biomechanics of the snatch, covering essential technical principles, body positioning and movement sequencing.

Participants learned about common errors, such as:

Incorrect grip width and hook grip impacting bar trajectory.
Rounded back at lift-off, early shifting forward.
Slow turnover in receiving position.

💡 Key takeaway: Small mistakes in the starting position lead to significant issues in the overhead position. Improving mobility, and reinforcing movement sequencing are crucial to improving the snatch.

🔹 Clean & Jerk Biomechanics & Progression

The C&J lecture covered both the clean and the jerk, emphasizing:

Front rack position errors leading to poor receiving mechanics.
Slow turnover affecting bar control.
Core tightness and stability to prevent collapsing during recovery.
Jerk position and dip-drive mechanics for maximal power transfer.

💡 Key takeaway: Precision and bar path control in the clean set up an effective jerk. Analyzing common issues, such as weak core engagement or poor dip drive mechanics, helps athletes optimize their technique for heavier loads.

📅 Day 2: Programming & Advanced Error Correction

🔹 Programming Lecture

The second day began with a deep dive into programming, covering:
How to structure a training plan for strength and technical development.
Balancing volume and intensity based on training cycles.
Customization for different skill levels, ensuring sustainable progression.

💡 Key takeaway: Effective programming requires intelligent load management and an understanding of adaptation phases.

🔹 Mistakes & Corrections Lecture

One of the most engaging parts of the seminar was the interactive mistake identification and correction session.

Participants analyzed:

How small technical flaws compound into major lifting inefficiencies.
Mobility drills to improve shoulder, hip, and ankle positioning.
What different cueing strategies help correct technical issues.

💡 Key takeaway: Even small biomechanical adjustments can lead to significant performance improvements and injury reduction.

🔹 Certification Test

To conclude, participants completed the Test, demonstrating their grasp of the seminar material.

By the way, all coaches who passed certification tests are included in our Coaching Level 1 List, on our website.

Afterward, Oleksiy Torokhtiy snatch training session allowed attendees to watch and enjoy his Master lifting.

We are deeply grateful to Can Nal and Kübra Yüksel and Seven Training Club owners Erkan and Esra Yüceyüksel for their incredible effort in organizing and making the event happen.

The Torokhtiy L-1 Certification is the ultimate educational experience for anyone looking to level up their weightlifting skills, coaching abilities and training knowledge.

Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or trainer, this seminar provides theoretical depth and practical application to elevate your approach to weightlifting.