This is the Canadian Powerlifting Union
Powerlifting is an intense and exciting sport representing the ultimate test of physical and physiological strength. This claim is supported by those in the athletic community as Powerlifters hoist more weight per attempt than any other Sport. It is a true test of muscle strength whereby the athlete challenges themselves with weights which exceed 3 times their own body weight in the Squat and Deadlift and 2 times their body weight in the Bench Press.
Competitors are given 3 attempts in each of the disciplines, the Squat, the Bench Press and the Deadlift. The best lift in each discipline is added together to arrive at a lifter’s TOTAL for the contest, by which they are ranked. The highest TOTAL wins each weight class. Athletes are divided into classes by weight and age. All weights are in kilograms. A lifter must have at least one successful attempt in each of the disciplines to compile a TOTAL, otherwise they are disqualified. There are many technical rules which govern a Powerlifting contest, and some of the reasons for disqualifying a lift are set out below. For an attempt to be successful, the lifter must receive at least 2 white lights from the three referees adjudicating. The lights are arranged from left to right as you view the contest, and correspond to each of the referee’s location on the platform. Listed below are a few of the most common rules for disqualifying a lift. An attempt will not be passed by a referee if these and a number of other rules are not followed:
Squat
Failing to squat deep enough (top of the thigh at the hip joint must be below the top of the knee).
Failing to follow the referee’s command at the start and end of the lift.
The bar may stop on the way up, but there must be no downward movement of the weight.
The lifter cannot take a step forward or backward during the attempt.
The lifter must be standing erect with the knees locked at the start and finish of the lift.
Any dropping or dumping of the bar after the lift is finished.
Bench Press
The bar must stop on the chest or abdominal area (bar must not touch the belt) and be held motionless until the Chief Referee gives the “Press” command.
The lifters arms must extend upwards evenly to completion.
The lifter must have arms locked at the start and finish of the lift.
There must be no downward movement of the weight during the lift.
Shoulders and buttocks cannot rise of the bench during the lift.
The lifter must follow the referee’s command at the start and end of the lift.
Any contact of the lifter’s feet with the bench or its supports.
Deadlift
The lifter must be standing erect with shoulders back and the knees locked at the completion of the lift.
There must be no downward movement of the weight during the lift.
The bar cannot be supported on a lifter’s thighs during an attempt.
The lifter must follow the referee’s command at the end of the lift.
Allowing the bar to the drop to the platform without controlling the movement.
Complete IPF Technical Rule Book