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RELATED: Why Compete?

These are all common and valid questions that need to be answered prior to competing.

Therefore, in an attempt to simplify the process and encourage everyone to enter into a
competition, I've written this article that answers damn near every question a beginner
lifter could possibly have. I hope you enjoy it, and if you have any questions, comments,

or suggestions, feel free to leave them at the end.

First and Foremost, What is Powerlifting?

Powerlifting, often confused with Olympic lifting, is an individualized sport in which
competitors attempt to lift as much weight as possible for one repetition in the squat,
bench press, and deadlift. Each lifter is placed into a specific division and classified by
several variables including weight class, age group, and experience level. Further

subdivisions are made between what is known as “raw” and “geared” powerlifters,
indicating whether or not the individual is wearing supportive equipment during the
competition.

Competitions are generally all-day events that begin with the squat, progress to the bench
press, and conclude with the deadlift. Every lifter is allowed three attempts at each lift,
making for a total of nine competition lifts throughout the day.

Three officials serve as judges and collectively decide whether or not a lift is considered
“good” or “bad.” Each judge’s decision is represented by a panel of red and white lights
(white indicating a “good” lift and red indicating a “bad” lift) displayed after each
attempt. Two or three white lights are sufficient for a “good” lift while one or less is

disqualified.

At the end of the day, awards are presented to the lifters with the highest squat, bench
press, deadlift, and total within their division. A lifter's total is determined by the sum of

his/her best lifts, and the individual with the highest total is considered the all-around
strongest lifter in his division.