Specificity in Streetlifting: What it means and why it matters
When we talk about “specificity” in training for streetlifting, we’re discussing how closely training elements align with the demands and environment of competition. The principle of specificity guides us in designing training programs that bring out our best on competition day. But what does “specificity” mean in practice, and how can it be tailored to both the sport and the individual?
What is specificity?
In streetlifting, specificity is how similar our training is to the competition setting. Think of this as a sliding scale from “less specific” to “more specific,” with every training component - movements, loads, and environmental conditions - positioned along this continuum.
1. Movement Specificity:
Movement specificity means focusing on exercises that closely replicate the competition lifts. For instance, the squat or pull up with competition-specific technique and grip will be more specific than a wide-grip lat pulldown or safety bar squat.
Example Spectrum:
- Less Specific: Slow muscle up or wide-grip lat pulldown
- More Specific: Competition muscle up or competition pull up
2. Load Specificity:
This aspect includes absolute load (percentage of 1RM), load sequencing (like ascending RPE sets or back-off sets), and the total reps per set. Higher loads that closely approach a lifter’s 1RM are more specific to competition demands than moderate or light sets.
Example Spectrum:
- Less Specific: 3x5 at moderate RPE or 60–85% 1RM
- More Specific: Heavy singles or 3x2 at high RPE, approaching 1RM
3. Environmental Specificity:
Environmental factors in training can mimic competition by using similar equipment, timing, and commands. Training with a competition-approved weighted belt, calibrated plates, and strict rest times better prepares lifters for the demands of the platform.
Example Spectrum:
- Less Specific: No time constraints, non-certified weighted belts, non-calibrated plates
- More Specific: competition-approved weighted belt with calibrated plates, commands, and strict time intervals
Why Specificity Matters
Specificity helps us target adaptations that support our goals on the platform, but it’s important to remember it’s not an absolute rule. A training approach that’s highly specific to competition is not automatically better, and less specific routines aren’t inherently worse. Balancing specificity with individual needs is crucial, and what works for one lifter may not work for another.
For many lifters, specificity should increase as they approach a competition to align training more closely with competition demands. However, for long-term progress, a mix of specific and non-specific training may yield the best results, allowing for greater adaptability and addressing any individual needs or preferences.
Specificity Tailored to the Individual
While training “specific to the sport” sets a valuable framework, it’s essential to consider each lifter’s unique traits, preferences, and responses. What does it mean to be an individual in training? Each person brings their movement patterns, structural differences, and experiences, and training needs to account for these variables.
Training that’s “specific to the individual” considers:
- Personal strengths and weaknesses in the lifts
- Unique responses to certain loads or volumes
- Preferred movement patterns that may differ slightly from the “textbook” technique
With this approach, the training process adapts to each lifter, rather than requiring the lifter to conform to a rigid training template. By experimenting with training loads and listening to feedback, lifters and coaches can make data-informed adjustments over time.
Closing Thoughts
The principle of specificity offers a strong foundation for training, providing structure, and guiding adaptation. But specificity should not be viewed as a rigid rule - rather, it’s a flexible guideline that considers both the demands of the sport and the characteristics of each lifter.
Ultimately, the goal is to design training that is as unique as the individual, while still aligned with the demands of the sport. By making training decisions that respect each lifter’s personal traits, experiences, and responses, we create an approach that’s both sustainable and effective.
Ready to make your training specific to YOU?
If you're looking to take your performance to the next level with a program that balances sport-specific demands and your unique needs, check out our SL PRO PROGRAM BUILDER and PROFESSIONAL STREETLIFTING PRORGAM. Whether you’re competing or training for personal goals, our programs provide adaptable, effective guidance to help you reach your full potential.