Weightlifting in Latvia began developing in the late 19th century, with the first weightlifting club established in 1889 in Riga. The Riga Athletes Club was founded in 1894, and by 1905, the first Baltic Championships were held. From 1907, these championships became an annual event. In 1912, Jānis Krauze won the Riga Championships and set his first world record in 1913, lifting 113.2 kg with his right hand. By 1914, Latvian weightlifters held six world records and were among Europe’s strongest. The first national championships in independent Latvia took place in 1920.

Since its foundation in 1921, the Latvian Weightlifting Federation has overseen a remarkable journey of triumph and transformation. Through the Soviet era and into independence, Latvian weightlifting has evolved with changing weight categories and a steadfast presence in international competitions. Today, the sport remains a cornerstone of Latvia’s athletic identity, with regular national championships and a dedicated focus on nurturing the next generation of champions.