Rules & Guide

Everything you need to know about powerlifting meets

Squat

The lifter must descend until the hip crease is below the top of the knee.

Good Lift Criteria

  • •Hip crease below top of knee
  • •Bar remains on upper back throughout
  • •Wait for rack command
  • •Feet remain flat on platform

Causes for Red Lights

  • •Not hitting depth (hip crease above knee)
  • •Downward movement during ascent
  • •Failure to lock out knees at finish
  • •Stepping forward or backward

Bench Press

The bar must touch the chest, pause motionless, then be pressed to lockout.

Good Lift Criteria

  • •Bar touches chest and pauses
  • •Wait for press command
  • •Bar moves upward without heaving
  • •Arms fully extended at lockout

Causes for Red Lights

  • •Bar sinks into chest during pause
  • •Heaving or bouncing off chest
  • •Butt leaves the bench
  • •Feet move during the lift

Deadlift

The bar must be lifted to full lockout with knees and hips extended.

Good Lift Criteria

  • •Knees and hips fully locked
  • •Shoulders back at lockout
  • •Bar held motionless at top
  • •Wait for down command

Causes for Red Lights

  • •Supporting bar on thighs
  • •Hitching or ramping the bar
  • •Failure to stand erect
  • •Dropping the bar before down command