Both of the events were held within the framework of the International Weightlifting Federation's (IWF) development programme, with one in Nicaragua and one in El Salvador.

The Nicaragua event, held in capital city Managua, was considered especially important as the country will host this year's Central American Games.

Maritza Ortiz of the Dominican Republic was the lecturer at both courses.

She is a member of the PAWF Techincal Commission and is an international technical official.

More than 50 people took part across both programmes in the Central American nations.

Topics covered included incorrect movement, athletes' outfits and the roles of technical officials.

One weightlifter from the Americas won an Olympic medal at the Rio 2016 Games in August.

Óscar Figueroa starred in the men's under-62 kilogram competition, winning the gold medal.

He improved upon the silver he won in the same weight division at London 2012.