What is Powerlifting?
Powerlifting is a strength sport with three lifts: the squat, bench press, and deadlift. Each lifter gets three attempts at each lift, and the best of each adds up to a total.
The Three Lifts
01
Squat
With the bar on the shoulders, the lifter squats until the hips are below the knees, then stands. Three referees judge depth and lockout.
02
Bench Press
The lifter lowers the bar to the chest, elbows level with the shoulders or lower, holds it still until the press command, then presses to lockout.
03
Deadlift
The lifter pulls the bar from the floor to a standing lockout, with the knees straight and the shoulders back.
Meet Format
Attempts are taken in rounds with the rest of the flight. Three referees judge each attempt, and two white lights make it good.
Step 1
Weigh In
Weigh-in opens two hours before lifting starts. Bodyweight sets your weight class, and you declare your first attempts.
Step 2
Squat
The best successful lift counts. Attempts can only go up.
Step 3
Bench Press
Same judging and loading rules as the squat.
Step 4
Deadlift
Placings are set after the final round.
Best Squat + Best Bench + Best Deadlift =
Total
Classic & Equipped
Classic
Lifters compete in a singlet with a belt and knee sleeves. Most lifters start in Classic.
Equipped
Lifters wear supportive squat and deadlift suits, bench shirts, and knee wraps.
Age Divisions
Youth 8-11
Pre-Sub-Junior 12-13
Sub-Junior 14-18
Junior 19-23
Open 14+
Masters I 40-49
Masters II 50-59
Masters III 60-69
Masters IV 70+
Each division competes in bodyweight classes.
Enter Your First Meet
Find sanctioned meets on the events calendar. You need a current membership to enter.