Strong Lifts to Powerlifting Competition

MissHolidayGolightly

I've been toying with the idea of doing a powerlifting competition as a medium- to -long-term goal. I am fairly new to lifting and need to be able to get the weight up before I go out for something. I have some questions and am looking for experiences and opinions:

1. Has anyone done a competition? What was your experience?

2. Do you think doing strong lifts is a good way to train? Would a different variation be better? Would you add or change anything?

3. Is the low back parallel squat used in competitions or is it high back all the way down?

4. How do you know if you're ready to compete?

5. Should I consider hiring a trainer?

Thank you and I look forward to discussing this! (Ugh I sound like I'm writing a work email).

girlie100

I started with SL but have moved on since then, I have also competed a few times.

If you are interested in competing then defo just go for it, you may want to test a few 1 rep or 2 rep maxes to give you an idea of where you are and what you will be lifting in the comp.

Find a local qualifying meet and check their rules and requirements, I'm in the UK and lift under IPF rules which are pretty strict.

You don't necessarily need a coach but if there is someone at your gym that has some knowledge of powerlifting can go through the commands with you.

With most comps as long as you break parallel you can squat low or high, however depending on how strict they are at judging you may not get a squat command if you can't stand upright with the bar on your back after unracking.

In terms of training if you are relatively new to strength training and are still making good progress then I would stick with 5x5 for now as this is the fastest way of adding strength.

Look up qualifying totals for your local comp and suss where you are, also look for a drug free comp that is raw/unequipped

oh and good luck :drinker:

MissHolidayGolightly

Very helpful information, thank you.

Starting some research now to find upcoming nearby competitions and any information they may provide.

I will try to find someone who has competed to talk to and get some advice. I know my gym has some body builders/figure competitors and I'm sure I can find a powerlifter or two :-)

Fittreelol

I started with SL, and have since moved on to other programming. I have also competed a couple times, and pretty much agree with everything Ms. Girlie said. The only thing to add is every fed I've looked at in the us has an amateur division which is drug free. (Some are fully drug free, others have an untested "pro" division.)

MissHolidayGolightly

Thank you. I read over the rules and guidelines to familiarize myself. Paying more attention to my squat form to ensure I can stand fully upright and get just below parallel. Deloading bench tomorrow to work on form. Will ensure I can come all the way down to my chest each rep.

Now to find a comp in my region. Will be on the lookout.