Personal Equipment
"Geared" Lifting
"Raw" Lifting
These rules are subject to change at any time. Please note that the rules are currently undergoing revisions and may not reflect the immediate changes approved by the Board of Directors. Latest Revision 11/24/07.
RULES OF CONDUCT
1. The International Powerlifting Association (IPA) recognizes the following lifts:
A. Lifts
and Sequence
1. Squat
2. Bench Press
3. Deadlift
4. Total
The total score for each lifter is derived by adding the three heaviest lifts (squat, bench and deadlift) which are successfully completed and passed by the judges.
Each of the three lifts must follow the same sequence as noted above in all competitions conducted under IPA rules.
B. Sanctioned Validity for Competition and Lifts
The IPA will recognize as valid only those lifts and/or totals which are performed in accordance with IPA rules at an officially sanctioned event.
2. The IPA recognizes and registers World records for the same lifts within the age categories following:
Age Categories (Men & Women)
1. Teenage: 14-15, 16-17, 18-19 (Am Only)
2. Junior: 20 23 (Pro/Am)
3. Open: 20 and older (Pro/Am)
4. Submaster: 33 39 (Pro/Am)
5. Master: 40 44, 45 49, 50 54, 55 59, 60 64, 65 69, 70 74, 75 79,
80+ (Pro/Am)
6. Police: (Am Only)
7. Special Olympian Division-Am. Only (Teen 14-19yrs.; Open 20-29
yrs.; Master 30 and up).
Amateur (Am) Division includes all age categories
mentioned above.
Pro Division includes age categories 2, 3, 4, and 5
mentioned above.
3.Body weight Catagories
|
Men's Kilograms |
Pounds |
Women's Kilograms |
Pounds |
4. Composition of a Team for a Competition
Each registered IPA Team may submit a minimum of three (3) and a maximum of twelve (12) lifters to begin contention for team points. These lifters can be spread throughout the range of weight classes for men and women, not to be more than two (2) competitors in any particular weight class. Each team will be allowed a maximum of three (3) alternates or reserve lifters. All team rosters must be in the hands of the Meet Director or the person who is in charge of the scorer's table one-half hour prior to the beginning of the competition. The team roster must be accompanied by a copy of the Registered Team Certificate.
5. Team Points Scoring
Point scoring shall be as follows for the first five places: 10, 5, 3, 2, and 1. Team awards will be given to the top one (1) to three (3) teams, with the team with the most first places getting the nod over the other teams. If both teams have an equal number of first places, then the most second, third, fourth, and so on, will determine the winner. Team awards will be presented to the top three (3) teams at all National and International Meets.
6. Team Awards
A minimum of one (1) award must be presented at each meet. Up to three places, however, may be awarded upon the meet directors discretion.
7. The Round System will be used at all IPA meets.
8. Weight Calibration
The meet director decides whether to use pound or kilogram weights in his/her meet. For National and International meets, platform weights must be weight certified within 30 days of the meet. A certified weigh-in scale must be provided at all meets where world and national records will be set. Verification of scale certification must be sent to the Home Office.
9. Special Rules
There are certain exceptions for High School, Prison or Special
Olympic Meets:
Standard mandatory equipment is optional. Shoes, snug fitting shorts,
and t-shirts must be worn.
1. Platform
The platform must be 12 ft. x 12 ft. constructed of wood covered with full-loop, low pile rug for a full powerlifting meet, and 8 ft. x 8 ft. for single and double lift meets (except for squat meets when the platform must be 12 ft. x 12 ft.). For the safety of the participants and spectators, an adequate area must be roped off around the platform. No one is allowed on the platform except for the lifter, designated spotters, loaders and referees. Any adjustments to the equipment on the platform or the platform itself will be designated by the referees and/or the meet director.
2. Bars
All bars must be of the Olympic type. Specifically designated squat or deadlift bars may be used. There should be a diameter machine marking or the bar should be taped to measure 81 cm or 31-7/8 inches between markings or tape. National and International competitions require the use of the Sutherland Squat Bar and a deadlift specific bar (no center knurling). The bars used in the warm-up area must be the same as that used on the lifting platform.
3. Collars
Collars will always be used. They each must weigh 2.5 kg. so that the total weight of the bar with collars is 25kg. or 55 lbs. or heavier with collars if using the Sutherland Squat Bar.
4. Plates
Plates will range from 1.25 kg. through 45 kg. or in pounds 2.5 lbs. through 100 lbs. Plates .5 kg. and .25 kg. may be used for record purposes only. The heaviest plate must be loaded first facing in, with the rest of the plates loaded facing out heaviest to lightest.
5. Squat Racks
Squat racks shall be of sturdy construction and provide maximum
stability. The base shall be designed not to impede the movement of
the lifter or spotter/loaders. It may consist of a one-piece unit or
two separate stands designed to hold the bar in a horizontal
position. Squat racks shall be adjustable to accommodate the lifters
individual heights. Hydraulic racks must be capable of being secured
at the required height by means of pins. It is required for National
and International meets that a Monolift-type squat rack be used on
the competition platform and a minimum of two Monolift-type squat
racks be available in the warm-up area.
6. Bench
Bench meets will have two benches in the warm-up area and make
available in the warm-up area the same bar used on the competition
platform. The bench shall be of sturdy construction for maximum
stability and conform to the following dimensions:
A. Length not less than 1.22 m. (4 feet) and shall be flat and level.
B. Width shall be 29-32 cm. (11 1/2 to 12 5/8 inches).
C. Height- Max height 18.75 inches measured from the floor to the top of the padded surface of the bench without being depressed or compacted. On adjustable benches, the height of the uprights shall be a minimum of 82-100 cm. (32-1/4 to 39 inches) maximum position. On non-adjustable benches the height of the measured from the floor to the bar rest uprights must be between 87-100 cm. (34.25 inches to 39.37 inches) from the floor to the bar rest position.
D. Maximum width between insides of bar rests 1.10m. (3 ft. 7-1/8 inches).
2. Lights
A system of lights is provided whereby the referees make known their decisions. Each referee will control a white and a red light, the white light representing a good lift and a red light denoting a bad lift.
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT - For "Geared" Lifting
1. One piece suits are required for all meets except those earlier excluded. Lifting suit leg must end no less than 6 inches from the knee when worn. A maximum of two (2) sewn layers only is allowed. There is no restriction on the thickness or type of material as long as it is one suit. Squat briefs are allowed.
2. Bench shirt sleeves may not cover the elbows. A maximum of two (2) sewn layers only is allowed in the amateur division. There is no restriction in the Pro Division on the thickness or type of material as long as it is of one shirt. New Rule: All referees may exercise his authority to require that bench shirts deemed hazardous to the safety of the lifter either be removed/replaced or adjusted on the body before the any lifting attempts take place. Men may not wear any other garment under the bench shirt. Women may wear a sports bra or tank shirt.
In the Amateur Division, The bench shirt collar shall not be pulled so low that the shirt exposes the front of the shoulder or the crease of the armpit. If the appropriate adjustments to the shirt are not made after a referees request, the infraction will cause the lifter to lose his/her attempt.
In the Pro Division, The bench shirt may be worn in any manner as long as the lifter demonstrates a controlled, safe movement during the lift.
The bench shirtsleeve shall be set above the elbow and visible to all judges before, during, and after the lift is completed. If the shirt cannot be set above the elbow before the start of the lift, the lifter will return to the end of the flights and be allowed to take his/her attempt with the shirt pulled properly above the elbow. If the bench shirt is not set above the elbow, the lifter will be disqualified.
Judges have the right to pull the barbell from any competitor for the safety of the lifter. The lifter has the right to return at the end of his/her flight and fully demonstrate that they can physically handle the attempted weight or reduce the attempt.
3. Socks - There are no restrictions as long as they
do not overlap the knee and they may not touch the knee wrap in the
standing position. Contact in the down squat position is okay.
Full-length leg stockings, pantyhose, and tights are forbidden.
4. Tee shirts, tank tops or any other type of short sleeve pullover shirt (sleeve is above the elbow) may be worn. Any emblem or logo may be displayed on a shirt as long as it is not obscene or profane.
5. A belt may be worn on the outside of the lifting suit. Maximum width of the belt is not to exceed 4 12; inches. Thickness of the belt may not exceed 1/2 inch. There are no other restrictions, including material construction of the belt.
6. Shoes DO NOT have to be worn during all lifts. Deadlift slippers are considered acceptable foot wear. No cleats or spikes are permitted.
7. Wrist wraps cannot exceed 3 ft.-6 in. long or 4 in. wide. Only one item is allowed on each wrist. Thumb loops on wrist straps must be removed from any finger before executing the lift. The wrist wrap may not be located more than 4 inches before the wrist and may extend one inch onto the palm.
8. Knee wraps shall not exceed two 2.5 meters and eight (8) cm. or three (3) in. in width. A single layer elastic knee brace can be worn, but any combination of the two may not be used. Knee wraps may not touch the socks or the lifting suit in the standing position. In the down squat position, contact is allowed.
9. General Rules: Wraps are not allowed to be worn anywhere else on the body with the exception of single layer neoprene elbow warmers in the squat and deadlift, but not in the bench press.
10. Competitors shall be briefed at the rules meeting as to what attire and equipment is considered legal or illegal. There will be no equipment checks. It is the responsibility of the lifter to attend the rules meeting to find out what is considered legal. The rules briefing shall begin as early as one (1) hour prior, but no later than 1/2 hour prior to the commencement of the competition.
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT - For "RAW" Lifting
1. One piece suits are required for all meets except those earlier excluded. Lifting suit leg must end no less than 6 inches from the knee when worn.
2. Socks - There are no restrictions as long as they do not overlap the knee. Full-length leg stockings, pantyhose, and tights are forbidden.
3. Tee shirts, tank tops or any other type of short sleeve pullover shirt (sleeve is above the elbow) may be worn. Any emblem or logo may be displayed on a shirt as long as it is not obscene or profane.
4. A belt may be worn on the outside of the lifting suit. Maximum width of the belt is not to exceed 4 1/2; inches. Thickness of the belt may not exceed 1/2 inch. There are no other restrictions, including material construction of the belt.
5. Shoes DO NOT have to be worn during all lifts. Deadlift slippers are considered acceptable foot wear. No cleats or spikes are permitted.
6. Wrist wraps cannot exceed 3 ft.-6 in. long or 4 in. wide. Only one item is allowed on each wrist. Thumb loops on wrist straps must be removed from any finger before executing the lift. The wrist wrap may not be located more than 4 inches before the wrist and may extend one inch onto the palm.
7. Squat & Deadlift equipment is limited to belt, wrist wraps and/or single layer elbow sleeves. No support may be worn on the knees or hips.
8. Bench equipment is limited to belt, wrist wraps and/or single layer knee sleeves. No support may be worn on the elbows or chest.
9. General Rules: Wraps are not allowed to be worn anywhere else on the body with the exception of single layer neoprene elbow warmers in the squat and deadlift, but not in the bench press.
10. Competitors shall be briefed at the rules meeting as to what attire and equipment is considered legal or illegal. There will be no equipment checks. It is the responsibility of the lifter to attend the rules meeting to find out what is considered legal. The rules briefing shall begin as early as one (1) hour prior, but no later than 1/2 hour prior to the commencement of the competition.
1. No foreign substance may be applied to the platform or equipment.
2. Spray stick-um may be used on the lifters suit only.
3. The use of oil, grease or other lubricants on the body, suit
or personal equipment is forbidden. Powder may be used, this includes
chalk, talc, resin and magnesium carbonate or baby powder (pool hall
"block chalk is also allowed).
4. Powder shall only be applied in designated lifting areas.
5. Water may be used as lubrication for the Deadlift as long as it is
provided by the Meet Director in a spray bottle.
***A referee MUST do a visual inspection of the lifters uniform and attire, equipment, etc. after a successful world record attempt is made. The referee must check the lifter's equipment on the platform immediately following the lift. If the lifter is wearing illegal attire, the record will not count and the attempt will be disqualified.
THE POWERLIFTS AND THE RULES OF PERFORMANCE
A. Rules of the Squat
1. The lifter must assume an upright position with the top of the bar not more than six (6) cm. or two (2) in. below the top of the anterior deltoids. The bar should be held horizontally across the shoulders with the hands and/or fingers gripping the bar and the feet flat on the platform with the knees locked.
2. After removing the bar from the racks, the lifter must establish his/her position. The lifter will begin the downward movement as soon as the lifter demonstrates control and the bar is properly positioned.
3. The lifter must bend the knees and lower the body until the top of the thigh at the hip, NOT the hip joint, is lower than the top of the kneecap. Locking and unlocking of the knees after demonstrating control of the weight is not defined as a descent. But, the knees must be locked at the-start and completion of the lift. Only one descent per-attempt is allowed.
4. The lifter must recover at will, from the deepest point of the squat, without double bouncing or any downward movement (stopping is allowed) to an upright position with the knees locked. If the lifter's feet move or if the lifter takes a step but regains control alone, the lift is good, as long as they are not assisted by a spotter and the situation does not appear dangerous.
5. When the lifter demonstrates control, the referee will give, the signal to replace the bar. The signal to replace the bar will consist of a backward motion of the hand and an audible command RACK. The lifter must make a bonafide effort to return the bar to the rack. This is defined as one step toward the rack, then the lifter may request aid to rack the bar if needed. If the lifter loses his/her footing and drops the weight after receiving the rack signal and making a bonafide effort to return the bar to the racks, he/she will be granted the attempt. If the lifter deliberately drops or dumps the bar he/she will be disqualified from the competition
6. The lifter shall face the front of the platform
7. There shall be no more than six (6) or fewer than two (2) spotters on the platform at any time.
8. If failure of an attempt is due to an error by one or more of the spotter/loaders, the lifter will be given an additional attempt at the same weight if he/she wishes.
9. The lifter shall not hold the collars, sleeves, or plates at anytime during the performance of the lift. The edge of the hands gripping the bar, however, may come in contact with the inner surface of the collar.
10. The lifter will be allowed one legitimate effort per attempt.
Causes for Disqualification
1. Failure to observe the center referee's signals at the completion of the lift.
2. Double-bouncing or more than one recovery attempt at the bottom of the lift.
3. Failure to assume an upright position with the knees locked at the commencement and completion of the lift.
4. Failure to bend the knees and lower the body until the surface of the thigh at the hip is lower than the top of the kneecap.
5. Contact with the bar by the spotter/loaders between the beginning of the descent and the referee's signal, except where a lifter's safety is concerned.
6. Contact of the elbows or upper arms with the legs.
7. Failure to make a bonafide effort to return the bar to the racks.
8. Intentionally dropping or dumping the bar.
9. General Rule: The lifter may utilize his/her own rear spotter for the squat if requested.
1. The front, or rack, of the bench press must be placed on the platform facing the center referee.
2. The lifter assumes a starting position on his/her back with head, shoulders, and buttocks in contact with the flat bench surface. His/her shoes must be on the floor.
3. To achieve firm footing, the lifter may use plates or blocks (not exceeding 45 cm. x 45 cm.) to build up the surface of the platform. However, some part of the foot must remain in contact with the surface.
4. Not more than six, nor less than two spotter/loaders shall be in attendance on the platform. The lifter may enlist the help of the spotter/loaders in removing the bar from the racks. The lift-off must be to arms length and NOT down to the torso. If the lifter so wishes, he may utilize his own hand-off person.
5. The spacing of the hands shall not exceed 81 cm. (or 32 inches), measured between the forefingers. A reverse grip is permissible, providing the distance between the little fingers does not exceed 81 cm.
6. After receiving the bar at arms length, the lifter shall lower the
bar to his torso in a controlled manner and await the referees signal.
7. The signal is a vocal command of PRESS and is given when the
center of the bar touches the torso in a controlled manner.
8. After the signal to commence the lift is given, the bar is pressed upward to straight arms length and held in control until the audible RACK command is given. During the ascent, the bar may be extended unevenly (no more than 5 inches), but arms must be extended to a locked-out position simultaneously and evenly at the completion of the lift.
9. The bar is allowed to stop in its upward motion, but is not allowed any downward movement.
10. Head movement is allowed: this includes turning or raising the head.
11. The feet may move in any direction without penalty, but may not lose contact with the floor.
12. The buttocks must remain in contact with the flat bench surface during the entire range of motion.
13.New Rule for World Bench Press Records: IPA WORLD RECORDS CAN ONLY BE SET OR BROKEN AT THE ANNUAL WORLD AND NATIONAL MEETS and any local meet that has a board member judging the attempt. All Open Division, world record attempts must be videotaped. If the lifter receives one red light out of three judgment lights, the videotape of the lift will be evaluated by all three judges immediately following the attempt. Upon reviewing the tape, if two of the three judges disqualify the lift, the lifter is given another attempt to successfully complete the lift.
Causes for Disqualification
1. Failure to observe the referee ' s signals at the commencement and completion of the lift.
2. Raising the buttocks from the bench press surface or raising the foot completely off the floor.
3. Heaving or bouncing the bar off the torso (heaving or bouncing is defined as any excessive downward movement of the bar after the signal to "PRESS" is given).
4. Allowing the bar to sink into the torso after receiving the "PRESS" command.
5. Any uneven extension of the bar at the completion of the lift. An exception to this is if the lifter has demonstrated a legitimate physical handicap to the referees prior to the lift.
6. No downward movement by either hand once the "PRESS" signal is given.
7. The bar may make incidental contact with the uprights and still be considered a good lift, however, if the lifter uses the uprights deliberately for leverage, the lift is disallowed.
8. Contact of the lifter's feet with the rear supports of the bench.
9. Lifting of the bar by the spotter/loaders between the referee's PRESS and RACK signals.
10. It is the responsibility of the lifter to inform his hand-off person to clear the bench area in front of the referee. Failure to do so may be cause for disqualification of the lift.
1. The bar must be laid horizontally in front of the lifter's feet, gripped with an optional grip in both hands, and lifted upward in one movement until the lifter is standing erect. Stopping the bar is allowed, but no downward movement is allowed.
2. The lifter shall face the front of the platform.
3. Upon completion of the lift, the knees shall be locked in a straight position and the lifter shall be standing erect with hips locked. The shoulders are not to be forward or rounded. The shoulders do not have to be thrust back past the erect position, although, if they are thrust back in such a manner and all other criteria is acceptable, the li.
ft will be considered good.
4. The lifter shall stay in this erect position with shoulders back and hips and knees locked until the center referees signal consisting of a downward motion of the hand and the audible command "DOWN". The signal will not be given until the bar is held under control and the lifter is in the finished position.
5. Any raising of the bar or deliberate, bona fide attempt to do so will count as an attempt.
6. A lifter is allowed two (2) spotters to stabilizer the bar on the floor before the upward movement of the bar. The lifters attempt is disqualified is either spotter touches the bar once the lift commences.
7. New Rule for Dead Lift Records: IPA world records can be set at World and National meets. Also at any local meet only if an Executive Board Member is judging the lift.
Causes for Disqualification
1. Any downward movement of the bar during the upward movement during the lift.
2. Failure to stand erect with the shoulder and hips in an erect position.
3. Failure to lock the knee straight at the completion of the lift.
4. Supporting the bar on the thighs during the performance of the lift.
5. Lowering the bar before receiving the center referee's signal.
6. Allowing the bar to return to the platform without maintaining control with both hands or deliberately dropping the bar after the referee ' s signal.
General Rules of the Three Lifts
1. After each attempt, the lifter will have one (1) minute to properly submit his/her next attempt to the expediter's table. Failure to do so may result in a forfeiture of that attempt.
2. The lifter will be granted one (1) minute from the time the bar is announced "loaded" to initiate his/her attempt. Failure to do so within that time period may result in forfeiture of that attempt.
3. If for any reason a litter must follow himself/herself, the lifter will be granted a stated period of time by the executive in charge of no less than three (3) minutes and no more than eight (8) minutes. For world record purposes on fourth attempts, the last five (5) lifters in the flight will be granted the same privileges as those "following themselves."
1. IPA 24-Hour Rule
The IPA has a rule that is optional at most competitions and mandatory at any National or World Championship competition. When using the 24-hour weigh-in rule, the first weigh-in session must begin 24 hours prior to the start time of the competition. Multiple weigh-in sessions allow each lifter an opportunity to weigh-in 24 hours in advance of the day he/she will be lifting. Weigh-in sessions may be of any duration, and be broken up into several sessions at the discretion of the Meet Director. Weigh-in times must be specified on the entry blanks.
2. Weigh-In Procedures
A. All lifters MUST present his/her current IPA card at weigh-ins. If in an age category, he/she must present proof of age and date of birth with a driver's license or birth certificate. If the lifter is not a current card holder, he/she must purchase an IPA card prior to weighing-in. The lifter's IPA expiration date will be indicated on the lifter attempt card. All competitors in an IPA meet must be current IPA cardholders, unless an exception is made by the IPA President prior to the meet. If a sanctioned meet allows non-IPA members to compete (without authorization by IPA President) the sanction for the meet could be voided and the lifts, therefore, not be recognized by the IPA.
B. The weigh-in card must include the following information:
1. Lifters name.
2. Lifters age
3. Weight class, division
entered (Pro or Am) and subdivision/s.
4. Lifters actual body weight.
5. Opening attempts.
6. Rack height (when applicable).
7. IPA membership
expiration date
8. E-Mail Address
Lifters must be weighed in the nude or in underwear. The weigh-in procedure will ensure that all lifters are weighed-in by meet officials (or appointed non-referee representatives. General Rule: If a lifter enters a certain weight class, steps on the scales and officially makes weight within the upper and lower limits of that class, they may NOT be re-weighed to make another weight class.
An Amateur lifter, upon weighing-in, must be prepared to provide a
sample of his/her urine after competing if randomly chosen. To
protect the integrity of the drug test, the urine sample must be
handled by the appropriate official.
3. In case of Lifter's Tie
If two lifters weigh the same at weigh-in and eventually tie in their totals, they shall be re-weighed. The lifter weighing the lightest shall take first place and the heavier lifter second place. If they still weigh the same after the re-weigh, both lifters shall share first place and the person who would have regularly placed third will still be third and so on. If two lifters tie for first place, team scoring will be computed by adding the first and second place points and dividing them equally.
1. The meet director appoints the following officials:
A. Announcer
B. Expediters
C. Score Keepers (at least three)
D. Spotter/loaders
E. Other positions as needed.
6. Progressive Loading
The lifter attempting the lightest weight is first. The bar cannot be
reduced in weight once a lift has been
performed with the weight announced, except in rare situations. It is
a necessity that the lifter or his/her coach observe the progressive
loading of the bar and be ready for his/her attempt at the chosen weight.
7. Attempt Priority Rule
A lifter taking his/her first attempt must always precede lifters taking their second and third attempts with the same weight. Also, a lifter taking his second attempt must precede lifters taking his/her third attempts with the same weight. All first attempts must be taken in round # 1, all second attempts in round #2, and all third attempts taken in round #3. Fourth attempts may be taken at the end of the third round. Fourth attempts may always be taken for purposes of setting world records in the Professional and Amateur Open divisions only. It is at the discretion of the Meet Director when considering time constraints whether to allow world record fourth attempts in all other subdivisions. Fourth attempts may not be applied to the total or be considered as an attempt within a competition.
8. Minimum Weight Increases Between Successful Attempts
In IPA recognized competitions, the weight of the barbell must always be a multiple of 5 lbs. (2.5 kg.). The progression must be at least 10 lbs. between the first and second attempts and 5 lbs. between the second and third attempts.
Exceptions to this Rule:
A. A request for 5 lbs. between first and second attempts if the
lifter indicates that he/she is passing his/her third attempt.
B. Progression by 5 lbs. is accepted for a during the bench press
between her first and second attempts.
C. In record attempts made outside the competition, the weight of the
barbell must be at least 2.5 lbs. in excess of the current record.
This record attempt must be taken in normal sequence of increasing
weight during the competition, not at the completion of lifting.
5. Loading Errors or Incorrect Announcements by Speaker
A. If the bar is loaded to a lighter weight than originally requested and the attempt is successful, the lifter may accept the successful attempt or elect to take the attempt again at the weight originally requested. If the lifter chooses to re-take the attempt, it will be done at the end of that round.
B. If the bar is loaded to a heavier weight than originally requested and the attempt is successful, the lifter will be credited with the attempt. However, the weight may be reduced again if required by other lifters. If the attempt is not successful, the lifter will be granted another attempt at the original weight at the end of the round.
C. If the loading is not equal on each side, or if any changes occur on the bar or discs during the lift, or the platform is disarranged and the lift is not successful, the lifter will be granted another attempt at the original weight requested.
D. If the announcer fails to announce a lifter at the appropriate weight, then the weight on the bar shall be reduced as necessary and the lifter allowed to take the attempt.
General Rules and Reasons for Disqualification:
1. A lifter shall not adjust or wrap his equipment within the vicinity of the platform. The only exception to this rule is the belt may be adjusted.
2. Three unsuccessful attempts in any lift will automatically eliminate a lifter from the competition. If a lifter sets a record in one of the other lifts prior to being eliminated and the proper officials are present, the lifter will be granted the record in that lift. He, however, will not be allowed to continue with the competition.
3. Upon completion of a lift, the lifter has 30 seconds to leave the platform. Failure to comply after being warned will result in disqualification of the lift.
4. If a lifter suffers an injury, the official doctor will examine the injury. If he/she considers it inadvisable to continue, the lifter must retire from the competition. If no doctor is present, the referees or meet director will determine if the lifter can continue.
5. Any lifter or coach, who by reason of misconduct upon or near the competition platform is likely to discredit the sport and shall receive one official warning. If the misconduct continues, the referees will disqualify the lifter and order the coach to leave the venue. This rule applies even if it is the lifter's last lift of the day at a competition. Any lifter who strikes an official or any other individual at a competition will be permanently banned from all IPA competition. Any lifter who causes a disruption that seriously interferes with efficient operation of a competition, or interferes with lifters preparing for a lift will be suspended from competition for a period determined by the IPA President.
6. Any certified IPA referee who through his/her actions is obviously showing favoritism or bias towards a lifter will be permanently suspended as an IPA referee.
7. If a lifter assaults an official, competitor or spectator, the meet director shall notify the IPA in writing with in three days of the incident. A written complaint should include the name/s and the lifter/s involved.
1. Designation of Platform Referees
There are three platform referees: the center referee and two side referees.
2. Duties of the Center Referee
The center referee is responsible for giving the necessary signals for all three lifts. The center referee may disqualify a squat for depth ONLY if the depth achieved by the lifter is flagrantly high.
3. Positioning of the Platform Referees During a Lift
The referees may seat themselves in what they consider to be the best viewing positions around the platform for each of the three lifts.
4. Referee - Spotter Cooperation
Referees should position themselves in the best viewing position, without having to lean, shift and not leave his/her chair. A referee should not ask a spotter to move so he/she can get a better view of the lift if by doing so could in any way jeopardize the safety of the lifter. Lifter safety shall take priority at all times, however, the hands of the rear spotter may not interfere with the viewing of the top of the thighs at the hip joint.
5. Specific Areas of Responsibility of Judging for Referees
All three-platform officials are responsible for judging all aspects of the lifter and the lift on the platform. It is obvious that the center referee, from the position at the front of the platform, has a vantage point that makes it more difficult to judge some aspects of a lift, as compared to the side referees.
6. When a Referee is Blocked Our of Viewing the Lift
IIf during the lift, a spotter{s} unintentionally blocks the referee’s view of the lift the referee will judge according to his best judgment. Then the spotter will be subsequently warned.
7. Duties of the Referees (Also please see Rules and Regulations for Meet Directors section located at the end of the IPA Rulebook).
A. Prior to the Contest
2. The platform and equipment comply in all respects with the rules.
3. The scales work correctly and are certified accurate within the
last 12 months.
4. Assure that the weigh-ins are conducted legally and properly.
5. Assure that a thorough rules briefing is conducted prior to the
time that lifting starts.
B. During the Contest
1. The weight of the loaded bar agrees with the weight announced by
the speaker. At least one referee should be issued a loading chart.
2. During the meet, if any referee has reason to doubt a lifter's integrity (in respect to intentional use of invalid equipment or attire to give them unfair advantage over other competitors), it is to be called to the other referee's attention and the lifter will then be inspected. If the infraction is major, the lifter will be disqualified from the competition. If the infraction is minor, the lifter will be warned.
8. Procedure of a Referee Seeing a Fault in a Lift
The referee will interpret the fault through lights only at the end of the lift. He may not influence other referees at any time, unless he interprets the fault as being dangerous to the lifter or spotters. Any valid IPA member has the right to lodge a formal complaint with the Home Office regarding misconduct, bad refereeing, or any infraction they may have been involved in or witness to at any IPA sanctioned meet. The Home Office will accept complaints issued using the official IPA Complaint Form (available online at www.IPAPower.com).
9. Procedure for a lifter to be Informed of Infractions
A lifter receiving red lights may approach a referee only at the completion of his/her current lift and at no other time. The referee shall inform the lifter of the infraction in a brief manner so as to not break the flow of the meet.
10. Non-Influence of Referees Toward Each Other
A referee should not attempt to influence the decision of the other referees. No conditions should interfere with fair judgment of all lifters. Absolutely no favoritism will be tolerated. All lift's are to be judged equally.
11. Acceptable Referee Communication
Referees may consult with each other or any other official in order to expedite the competition or to correct faults. Consultations, when necessary, should be kept brief so as not to interfere with the progression of the competition. The lifter will never be penalized by an official's error and will always get the benefit of corrections.
12. Referee Dress Code
Referees should dress neatly and appropriately at National and World Championships. Referees will be required to wear the official Referee shirt provided to each referee by the IPA.
13. IPA Chain of Command
The IPA President has the power to supplement or
change the rules in this rule book if situations arise and are
undefined in this rule book. Also he will make final judgments should
the Executive Committee find themselves unable to settle a
discrepancy. The Executive Board Members have the
final decision in all discrepancies. They are the governing body for
the IPA. The Executive Referees are responsible for
testing new referees and have final decisions in all meet situations,
unless an Executive Board Member is present and is needed to help
settle a discrepancy. They are also responsible as described in the
prior two (2) pages.
The International Referees are responsible as
described in the prior two (2) pages. The Meet Director
is responsible for the general flow of the competition, selection of
referees and other meet staff. The Meet Director is
also included in any consultation regarding a discrepancy during the
competition. The Meet Director is also responsible
for sending meet results to the home office and to Powerlifting U.S.A.
14. General Conditions Required for Setting IPA Records
ALL IPA WORLD RECORDS CAN ONLY BE SET OR BROKEN AT THE ANNUAL WORLD AND NATIONAL MEETS. Records can be set at local meets only if a board member is judging. At national qualifying meets, National and World Championships or affiliated federations, world records will be accepted without weighing the barbell after the lift. At this level of competition, the weights must be weighed and marked before the competition begins. This is to eliminate unnecessary stops during the competition.
15. Requirements for Registration of World or National Records
1) The competition must be held under the IPA sanction.
2) All referees must be registered as IPA referees.
3) ALL IPA RECORDS CAN ONLY BE SET OR BROKEN IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IPA SENIOR OFFICIAL.
4) Competence of all referees from all member nations is beyond dispute.
5) A lifter may set a world record or other record for an individual lift at a full power meet. If the lifter makes it known that they are not competing for an award and wishes to set an individual lift record, with proper officials present, they may do so without having to take token attempts in the other lifts.
6) If the lifter competing in a full power meet sets an individual lift record, but is disqualified from the competition because he/she fails to make the three attempts in the other lifts, he/she will still retain the record he/she set in the individual lift, provided the proper referees are present to validate the lift.
7) The lifter must fill out a record request form. The form must be filled out completely, signed by all three officiating referees and mailed to the IPA within 30 days of the competition date. This requirement must be explained to the lifters at the rules meeting.
8) No fourth attempts for records may be included in the total within the competition. They are for the purpose of records only whether it is in the squat, bench, deadlift or total.
9) All weights must weigh within 1% of their face value determined by certified scales.
The IPA and its sponsors do not provide accident, medical or
liability insurance for lifters, spectators, or officials at meets or
organized training sessions. It is the responsibility of the meet
directors to secure insurance. The IPA assumes no liability for
injury, damages, personal losses or death resulting at a meet.
Proof of insurance must be provided when applying for
meet sanction approval. The IPA offers a meet director the access to
meet insurance for $500.00 dollars a day at his or her discursions
SANCTIONING COMPETITIONS
1. For a sanction to be granted, the meet director must apply for the sanction at least 4 weeks prior to the date of the competition. There should be no other IPA competitions in the area on the date of the competition. The sanction fee for State, local, and one/two lift meets is $100 for State, and $100 for National and World meets, and must accompany a request form. All lifters at IPA sanctioned must be IPA members. The meet director will sell IPA memberships at the competition and must mail all registrations and 100% of the fees received to the IPA within seven days after the competition.
The official formula utilized to determine overall best lifter awards at any IPA sanctioned competition shall be the Schwartz Formula for men and the Malone Formula for women. The Schwartz Master's Formula shall be used for lifters 40 years of age and older but only to detemine Master lifter placement. The Master Formula is not used to determine Best Lifters.
AMATEUR DRUG TESTING PROCEDURE
The IPA has three divisions: Professional, Amateur and Elite Amateur so all lifters can co-exist under one Association. Any lifter who has totaled Professional (Pro) will be designated Professional, (unless he/she chooses to enter the Elite Amateur (Elite Am) Division in which he/she will be drug tested in every meet at his/her expense).
The Professional Division is dedicated to anyone who totals Pro or above. Standard lifting rules apply, but the division is open to anyone who wants to enter as a Professional, no matter what he or she totals. There is no drug testing in this division. The Pro Division has its own world records. Records will be kept in the men's and women's Open, Junior, Submaster, and Master Divisions only. There is no Teenage, Special Olympian or Police Division in the Pro Division.
Amateur Division lifters will be tested for anabolic steroids through the use of urinalysis. Testing will be random or by lottery, and will be chosen by the Meet Director. Lifters should be tested prior to the start of the meet (weigh-ins seem the most logical time), but can be tested at anytime at the Meet Director's discretion. If the test is positive, all of the lifter's records and accomplishments to date will be disqualified and the lifter will be placed in the Pro division. If the lifter enters the Amateur Division and totals Pro, the lifter must compete as a Professional in the next meet he/she competes in. Amateur records will be kept in the men's and women's Teen, Junior, Open, Submaster, Police, Special Olympian, and Master Divisions.
Elite Amateur Division lifters will be tested for anabolic steroids through the use of urinalysis. They will be drug tested in every meet enetered as Elite AM at his/her expense. Lifters should be tested prior to the start of the meet (weigh-ins seem the most logical time), but can be tested at anytime at the Meet Director's discretion or should the lifter total Professional and wish to have the records/accomplishments recorded as Elite Amateur. If the test is positive, all of the lifter's records and accomplishments to date will be disqualified and the lifter will be placed in the Professional Division. Records will be kept in the men's and women's Open, Teen, Junior, Submaster, and Master Divisions only. There is no Special Olympian or Police Division in the Elite Amateur Division.
IPA PROFESSIONAL(ELITE AM) AND AMATEUR CLASSIFICATION TOTALS
|
Men's |
Women's |
||||||||||||||||
|
Wt.Class
114 |
Pro
1080 |
|
M*
975 |
|
Am.
950 |
|
M*
845 |
|
Wt. Class
97 |
Pro
671 |
|
M*
605 |
|
Am.
607 |
|
M*
547 |
|
*Master
IPA MEET DIRECTOR RULES AND REGULATIONS
1) All contests shall begin by 11 AM.
2) Meet directors will not participate in the meet as a lifter or coach unless approved by the IPA Sr. Officials. They may judge or spot if needed.
3) Daily Maximum Number of Competitors:
Single platform, full power meets: 70 lifters maximum per
day. If 50 or more lifters in a day, lifting schedule must be broken
into a morning and afternoon session.
Double platform, full power meets: 100 lifters maximum per
day. If 50 or more lifters in a day, lifting schedule must be broken
into a morning and afternoon session.
Single lift meets: 100 lifters maximum per day. If 50 or more lifters in a day, lifting schedule must be broken into a morning and afternoon session.
4) Meet directors will not use their position to influence the judges decisions.
5) Meet directors will not use foul or abusive language toward any official, lifter or fan.
6) Competitors or coaches are the only people who are able to dispute judgments made by the judges.
7) Meet directors will send all meet results to the President no later than 30 days after said meet via email or in hard copy form.
8) Meet directors will provide video coverage of the meet. two white and one red decision of all time bench records only will be reviewed by the judges . All three white light records will stand as called. This does not include IPA World Records. This is for all-time world records only.
9) Meet directors will show no favoritism toward any participant, team, or coach. He/she shall treat all lifers equally regardless of personal feelings.
10) Music may be played and light shows used as long as it does not impede the judges ability to judge. All music played must be limited in terms of profanity.
11) Lifters are allowed to warm-up on the equipment on the competition platform when number of lifters requires its use to expedite warming up for local and state meets. However, no lifter is allowed to warm up on the platform during the World and National competitions.
12) All IPA World Records may only be attempted, set or broken in the presence of an IPA Sr. Official.
13) Meet directors will charge no more than $99 - $129 for World or National meet entry fees. Local meets will charge no more than $75 - $90 for entry fees.
14) At the discretion of the IPA President, the meet director is responsible for reimbursing the attending IPA Representative his/her travel expenses (gas and lodging) at the completion of the meet before the IPA Representative departs.
15) All flights and lifter attempts will be posted upon completion of the competition days morning weigh-ins.
16) Meet directors must provide a list of equipment that will be available on the competition platform and in the warm-up area. The list of equipment must include all borrowed equipment and the name of the person from whom the equipment will be borrowed. This is required before a meet sanction will be granted.
17) Meet directors will provide chalk to lifters in the warm-up area and on the platform.
18) All lifting bars used must be of the highest quality and be the same type of bars that are used in the warm-up area.
19) All lifting platforms must be large enough to accompate the lifter, spotters and equipment safely. Platforms may be constructed of plywood or rubber mats covered by a full-loop, low pile rug.
Failure to follow any of these rules can result in the meet director being suspended from receiving a sanction for the period of one year.