.JPG)
In Powerlifting, male and female athletes must assume a
position with head, trunk (including buttocks), legs and both heels extended on
a specially designed bench and maintain this position during the complete lift.
An exception (must be ratified) can be accepted for medical reasons.
The bar is placed horizontally on two supports, adjusted on the left and right
of the bench. The lifter may request the help of the spotter/loaders when
removing the bar from the racks. After taking or receiving the bar at arms
length, the lifter shall wait with locked elbows for the Chief Referee's signal.
After receiving the signal "start", the lifter must lower the bar to the chest,
hold it motionless (visible) on the chest and then press it upwards, with an
even extension of the arms, to arms length with locked elbows. When held
motionless in this position the audible signal "rack" shall be given. An
immediate decision shall be given by the three nominated international referees
through a system of white and red lights.
From the moment the name of the athlete is announced with name, country, attempt
and weight on the bar, the competitor has two minutes to complete the attempt.
Each athlete has three attempts. If an athlete wishes to make an attempt in
order to achieve a record, they can make a fourth attempt. Within a three-minute
time limit instead of two.
Three referees assess the success of each attempt by choosing the
white or red light. The lifting order within each round will be determined by
the lifter's choice of weight for that round and the weights must be a multiple
of 2.5kg with the exception of a new record. Between the first and second
attempt, and between the second and third attempt, there must be a minimum
increase of 2.5kg.
Ground for disqualification includes:
Athletes not raising the bar upwards to full extension of
the arms
Athletes not making a synchronized move
Athletes not maintaining the bar motionless on the chest
Athletes not completing the attempt within the time
limit
Any change in the elected position on the bench during the lift
Heaving, bouncing or sinking the bar after it has been motionless on the
chest
Any downward movement of the bar in the course of being pressed out
Any contact with the bar by the spotter/loaders between
the Referee's signals
Failure to observe the referee's signals at the commencement or completion
Failure to comply with the requirements of the general description of the lift
Please find the complete Powerlifting Rules in the Powerlifting Handbook below
IPC Powerlifting Handbook 2004-2008