Competitions can be great fun, but also scary and intimidating! We've put together some info at the bottm of this page which may be helpful.

What are the rules?

If it's your first time competing then our guide at the bottom of this page will help you greatly! But if you're looking for everything else then we always refer people to the IPF Technical Rule book. It covers everything that the referees will be looking for, approved equipment and much more!

The GL Formula is used to compare the strength of powerlifters against each other despite the different weights of the lifters.

At a Divisional competition if you don't make weight on the day then you can usually just lift in the next weight class.

At a National competition you may be able to lift as a guest in the next weight class if scheduling allows for it, but you may not be allowed to lift.

At an International competition you won't be able to lift at all!

Classic lifting:

Singlet

T shirt

Underwear (non supportive)

Non padded bra

Approved knee sleeves

Approved belt

Knee high socks for deadlift

Wrist wraps

All equipment must be IPF approved if applicable (belt, singlet, wrist straps etc),in good condition and clean on the day.

All equipment must be IPF approved if applicable, in good condition and clean on the day

Equipped lifting:

Squat suit

Bench shirt

Deadlift suit

Singlet

T shirt

Underwear (non supportive)

Non padded bra

Approved belt

Knee high socks for deadlift

Wrist wraps

Knee wraps

All equipment must be IPF approved if applicable, in good condition and clean on the day

Refereeing Pathway

Divisional Referee Requirements:

Must be over 18 years old

Must be a BP member for at least 2 years

Pay a £50 exam fee(refunded after refereeing your first 2 competitions within 2 years)

National Referee Requirements:

Must have been a Divisional Referee for at least 2 years

Must be assessed at a National competition by a senior member of the Technical Committee

For more information, please email refs@welshpowerlifting.co.uk