There are many types of weightlifting exercises. The most basic exercise is weight training where a person lifts different weights in different positions for a number of times. Weight training can be done with various equipments, the most basic being a pair of dumbbells that are adjustable so different weight disks can be attached to them. Weight training is a type of resistance training for the development of the strength and size of one?s skeletal muscles.

The most common weightlifting exercise is to lift progressively increasing amount of weights. These exercises include doing the squat and dead lift using different weights. The other types of weightlifting exercises are categorized under isotonic, isometric and plyometric exercises. Isotonic exercises are those where the strain and force to the muscles does not change. Most weight training exercises are isotonic form of exercise.

Isometric exercises are those where the muscle length does not change. Simple weight training exercises are examples of isometric exercises. Plyometric exercises involve exercises that quickly alter the muscle fiber length. Using the medicine ball for exercise or jumping exercises are examples of plyometric exercises, which are mostly used to develop speed and power instead of strength.

Isolation exercises like leg extension are ones where movement is focused on one joint and one muscle group. Compound exercises like a leg press exercise several muscle groups at one time.

Dumbbells and barbells are free-weight exercises, named so because the weights are not bound to a machine that constrains the users to definite, fixed moments that require extra efforts of the stabilizer muscles of the individual. Working on the exercise machines are opposite of free-weight exercise, as here the weights are bound by the machine, and helps one to focus on a particular set of muscle without disturbing others.

Circuit weight training exercises use a number of weight training exercise sets that are separated by short intervals. Weightlifters usually exercise under the guidance of their coaches who advise them on which muscle group to target, how much strain to apply and other details. Their strengths and weaknesses are analyzed and a suitable customized fitness routine is formulated.