Powerlifting Weight Classes – Finding The Ideal Weight Class
Powerlifting is a sport that celebrates strength, technique, and determination. One important decision powerlifters must make before competing is selecting the optimal weight class for powerlifting to participate. Striking a balance between strength and body weight can have an impact on your performance on the platform. In this blog post we will delve into the concept of powerlifting weight classes for powerlifting tournaments and provide guidelines for determining how much to lift. We’ll also discuss weight categories among powerlifting federations and explore considerations for weight management.
Do powerlifting tournaments include weight divisions?
Certainly! Powerlifting tournaments incorporate weight classes to ensure competition and allow lifters with body weights to compete against one another. The weight classes for powerlifting are typically determined based on the lifters body weight on the day of the tournament. Each powerlifting federation establishes its set of categories for these weight divisions.
The prevalent weight classes for powerlifters encompass various options (, in kilograms) including but not limited to:
59 kg
66 kg
74 kg
83 kg
93 kg
105 kg
120 kg
120+ kg (also referred to as “super heavyweight”)
Female Powerlifting
Female powerlifters often compete in weight classes, which typically include divisions such, as 47 kg, 52 kg, 57 kg, 63 kg, 72 kg, 84 kg and the ” heavyweight” category of 84+ kg.
How Much Weight?
Determining how much weight you should lift in a powerlifting competition depends on several factors. These factors include your training experience, strength levels, and the specific competition you are participating in. In competitions you are usually given three attempts for each of the three lifts; squatting, bench pressing, and deadlifting.
To decide on your opening attempt weight for each lift during the competition it is recommended to choose a weight that you can comfortably handle for a repetition during training. The purpose of this lift is to build confidence and establish a start to your performance.
For your attempt in each lift, category aim for a weight that challenges you but is still, within your capabilities. This second attempt provides an opportunity to increase your score while setting the stage for your final and third attempts.
The third attempt is where you push yourself to the limits by attempting a record (PR) or setting a record specifically for that competition.
Choosing your Weight Class
The weight you choose for powerlifting should be manageable, for you. It should also provide a challenge that tests your strength and requires your focus.
When it comes to powerlifting federations different organizations may have their weight class categories. For example, the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) is widely. Follows weight classes. Here are the weight classes used in IPF powerlifting competitions, measured in kilograms;
Men’s Weight Classes;
59 kg
66 kg
74 kg
83 kg
93 kg
105 kg
120 kg
120+ kg
Women’s Weight Classes;
47 kg
52 kg
57 kg
63 kg
72 kg
84 kg
84+kg
Rules and Regulations
It’s important to review the rules and regulations of the federation you plan to participate in as they may have variations, in their weight class categories.
Determining whether or not to cut weight for powerlifting is a decision that requires consideration. Weight cutting involves reducing your body weight to qualify for a weight class. If you’re considering losing weight it’s important to do it in a responsible way to protect your performance and well-being.
Figuring out how much weight to cut for a powerlifting competition can be tricky. You want to drop enough to make your target weight class, but not so much that your strength takes a hit. Generally, aim for around 1-2% of body weight loss per week as you get close to game day.
Remember – extreme cutting can backfire and leave you dehydrated and underperforming. Take it slow and steady. For a custom weight loss plan tailored to your goals, chat with a coach or doctor. Safety first!
Strategy
Ultimately, choosing a weight class is strategic. Classes allow lifters to compete on a level playing field against others of similar size. Review the specific weight divisions of the federation your competition is under.
When picking weights for your attempts, start conservatively and build. Aim to nail your opening lift, then go for a challenging second attempt. Your final attempt is where you lay it all on the line for a PR or record!
Make weight choices smartly to play to your strengths. And cut weight gradually in a healthy way leading up to weigh-ins.
Finding your optimal class where you feel powerful and prepared is key. That’s when you’ll thrive on competition day and wow the judges with your abilities. Do it right, choose wisely, and watch yourself dominate! We hope this post will help you understand the weight class for powerlifting.
