Spotting (weight training)

Spotting in weight or resistance training is the act of supporting another person during a particular exercise, with an emphasis on allowing the participant to lift or push more than they could normally do safely.

[1] Correct spotting involves knowing when to intervene and assist with a lift,[2] and encouraging a training partner to push beyond the point in which they would normally 'rack' the weight (return it to its stationary position).

In the event of a missed lift, each spotter hooks an elbow under the end of the bar, and takes the plates in both hands.

The spotter will be standing behind the individual and moving their hands approximately 6 inches below the bar so that they can catch it in the event of the lifter running out of energy.

A spotter may not be preferred, however, because the risk of injury is lower and it is easier to drop the weight on the ground if the lifter loses control of the barbell.