What is Powerlifting
When talking to people about powerlifting, most confuse it with Bodybuilding or even Olympic weightlifting. For those who are unaware, powerlifting is an individual strength sport with the goal of lifting the most amount of weight possible.
Unlike the Olympic weightlifting, which involves only two lifts: the snatch and the clean and jerk, powerlifting involves three lifts: the squat, bench press, and deadlift. Powerlifting is more about brute strength, and it requires far fewer techniques. Contrary to Bodybuilding, which is all about sculpting the muscles, big muscles are not the primary goal of powerlifting. However, you may end up with big handsome muscles with powerlifting even.
Benefits Of Powerlifting
Besides gaining strength, powerlifting has a lot of benefits. It reduces the risk of brittle bones and osteoporosis as lifting heavy weights increases bone density. Unlike isolated exercises, the powerlifting compound moves every muscle group resulting in larger muscles. It increases muscle density, burns excessive fats, and helps you lose weight without even trying. And yes, it makes you stronger overall, enhancing your immunity and reducing the risk of injuries in your daily life.
Powerlifting Classes
As the name suggests, there are various categories of powerlifting called Classes. Your weight determines your Class, and it is not possible to compete in a lighter or heavier weight class.
The International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) has classified men and women powerlifters into various categories in line with their body weights.
IPF has classified the male powerlifters into the following 8 classes respective to their weights:
- 59 kg / 130 lbs
- 66 kg / 145 lbs
- 74 kg / 163 lbs
- 83 kg / 183 lbs
- 93 kg / 205 lbs
- 105 kg / 231 lbs
- 120 kg / 265 lbs
- 120 kg+ / 265 lbs+
Whereas the female powerlifters are categorized into 7 classes as per their body weights which are listed below:
- 47 kg / 104 lbs
- 52 kg / 115 lbs
- 57 kg / 127 lbs
- 63 kg / 139 lbs
- 72 kg / 159 lbs
- 84 kg / 185 lbs
- 84 kg+ / 185 lbs+
There is only one primary consideration for you to make when selecting your weight class – that is, the weight class you compete in should be the Class that allows you to carry as much muscle mass as possible. It is good to fall at the top end of your weight class. Being at the lighter end of the Class may not be suitable in terms of strength. And yes, a reasonably lean physique is ideal for a perfect powerlifting performance.
