Meet day is a big event for anyone in the powerlifting community. Competitors of all skill and experience levels come together, and there are a few things to know that aren't part of the official rule set. Here are the most important unwritten rules of powerlifting competitions, written by someone who's been there.
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Respect Space and Gear
One of the key principles in powerlifting competitions is respecting other people's space and their equipment. I'll share a personal story to illustrate this. During one of my early competitions, I ran out of chalk and saw some on the floor. I picked it up, intending to use it, only to have it snatched away with a stern reminder not to take what's not mine. This taught me the importance of respecting personal belongings at competitions. Whether it's foam rollers, chalk, or knee wraps, it's vital to remember that they are not communal items.
It might seem simple, but remember that so many of these powerlifting meets are chaotic. You might think something is provided by the event staff. It's worth checking just in case.
Help in the Warmup Area
The warmup area is another place where these unwritten rules come into play. Initially, I was a bit selfish, focused only on my routine. However, I learned that helping and collaborating with fellow lifters not only builds camaraderie but can lead to mutual assistance. It's a community, albeit a small one, and making friends rather than enemies is crucial.
Be open to helping others in the warmup area, and you may find the favor returned when you need it most. The powerlifting community may be growing, but local meets still draw so many of the same faces every year. You build your reputation as much with the way you treat others as you do with your competitive strength performance.
Bring Snacks
Competitions can be long and demanding, making it important to be prepared. One major piece of advice is to bring snacks to maintain your energy levels. Leaving a meet for food is risky, as the order of competitors can change unexpectedly. I once left to get food, only to return and find that my lifting group had already started. It's best to come prepared with snacks, avoiding unnecessary stress and ensuring you're fueled and ready to compete.
Don't make the mistake of thinking you'll eat later. Powerlifting nutrition plays such a key role in performance.
Keep Track of Your Attempts
Staying organized and ensuring you're not out of order during competition is crucial. I'll share an incident involving one of my clients for context. Another competitor mistakenly took his turn because they were lifting the same weight, disrupting the sequence. This highlights the importance of being attentive and making sure you understand the competition order. Do not assume it's your turn-based purely on weight; stay focused and ensure you're in the right place at the right time.
If you're a first-time powerlifter, you can also take Game Day for Powerlifters. It's a course taught by the former head coach of Powerlifting Team Canada, and it prepares lifters for their first-ever powerlifting meets.
Support All Lifters
Finally, the most important unwritten rule is to support all lifters, regardless of their skill level. Remember, powerlifting is a community-focused sport. I've seen teams isolate themselves, hoarding equipment, which can create an unwelcome atmosphere. Instead, focus on fostering a positive environment by respecting others both directly and indirectly. We all started somewhere and likely had someone who inspired us, so being mindful of your peers helps keep the sport accessible and encouraging for everyone.
To conclude, these unwritten rules aren't mandatory. They just contribute to a positive and successful competition experience. By respecting others, being prepared, and supporting fellow lifters, you can enhance both your own experience and that of those around you. Let's keep the dialogue open—I'd love to hear your thoughts and any other unwritten rules you think are crucial. Feel free to comment and engage in the conversation!
This has been Joseph Lucero with Powerlifting Technique. Thank you for reading, and remember to stay supportive and positive both on and off the platform.
1 thought on “The Unwritten Rules of Powerlifting Competitions”
If you are sweating and, on a bench, wipe the bench off before you leave it.