Powerlift vs Olympic Lift - Got asked by friends why I'm doing Oly. I find the 2 main differences between the 2 would be on the speed requirement and the muscle engagement, and how they impact performance in sports. Oly lifters need to move the weight swiftly. It translates well into improving explosiveness and agility in sports. Meanwhile Powerlift helps lifters on strength build up, it will help lifters more on maintaining balance in all kinds of movements. (Continue on comment section)