INTERNATIONAL BLIND SPORTS FEDERATION POWERLIFTING RULES AS FROM JANUARY 1st 2007 Latest update: January 1st 2007 By: IBSA Powerlifting Sub-committee Table of contents THE IBSA POWERLIFTING SUB-COMMITTEE 5 TECHNICAL RULES BOOK 5 AGE CATEGORIES 6 BODYWEIGHT CATEGORIES : 7 EQUIPMENT AND SPECIFICATIONS 9 PLATFORM 9 BARS AND DISCS 9 COLLARS 12 SQUAT RACKS 12 BENCH 12 LIGHTS 13 FAILURE CARDS / PADDLES 13 SCOREBOARD 17 COSTUME AND PERSONAL EQUIPMENT 17 COSTUME 17 T SHIRT / SUPPORTIVE SHIRT 18 SUPPORT SHIRT ¡ERROR! MARCADOR NO DEFINIDO.8 BRIEFS 20 SOCKS 20 BELT 20 SHOES OR BOOTS 22 WRAPS 22 INSPECTION OF COSTUME AND PERSONAL EQUIPMENT 23 GENERAL 24 POWERLIFTS AND RULES OF PERFORMANCE 25 SQUAT 25 BENCH PRESS 26 DEAD LIFT 28 WEIGHING IN 30 ORDER OF COMPETITION 32 THE ROUND SYSTEM 32 THE ORGANIZER WILL APPOINT THE FOLLOWING OFFICIALS: 38 RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE OFFICIALS ARE: 38 REFEREES 45 JURY 49 IBSA POWERLIFTING SUB- COMMITTEE 50 WORLD RECORDS 52 WORLD, CONTINENTAL, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS 52 ALL OTHER COMPETITIONS 53 GENERAL RULES OF IBSA POWERLIFTING SUBCOMMITTEE Throughout this rule book, for reasons of brevity, wherever the words “he” or “his” occur, such reference is deemed to apply to either sex. 1- Sanction procedure for powerlifting championships, the following rules must be followed: a- For a world championship: approval by the IBSA President and IBSA Technical Director with two necessary official agreements and signatures needed to award a sanction. b- For a continental event: the approval and signature from the continental delegate and technical director needed. c- Date for request to organize competition: at least 12- 15 months before the date of competition. 2 - (a) The IBSA Powerlifting sub-committee recognizes the following lifts which must be taken in the same sequence in all competitions conducted under IBSA rules. The IBSA Powerlifting Sub-committee has used mostly the IPF rules for blind Powerlifting: A. Squat B. Bench Press C. Dead lift D. Total (b) Competition takes place between lifters in categories defined by sex, bodyweight and age. The Men’s and Women’s Open Championships permit lifters of any age in excess of 14 years. (c) The rules apply to all levels of competition. (d) Each competitor is allowed three attempts on each lift. The lifter’s best valid attempt on each lift, counts toward his competition total. Lifters failing to achieve a total are eliminated from the overall competition. If two or more lifters achieve the same total, the lighter lifter ranks above the heavier lifter. (e) If two lifters register the same bodyweight at the weigh in and eventually achieve the same total at the end of the competition, the lifter making the total first will take precedence over the other lifter. 3 – The IBSA, through its member federations, conducts and sanctions the following World Championships: 1- Men’s and Women’s combined Open world powerlifting Championships 2- Men’s and Women’s combined Junior - Masters Powerlifting World Championships IBSA also recognizes and registers world records for the same lifts within the categories described hereunder: Age Categories Men - Open: from the day he reaches 14 years and upwards (no category restrictions need apply). Junior: from 1 January in the calendar year he reaches 14 years and throughout the full calendar year in which he reaches 23 years. Master I: from 1 January in the calendar year he reaches 40 years and throughout the full calendar year in which he reaches 49 years. II: from 1 January in the calendar year he reaches 50 years and throughout the full calendar year in which he reaches 59 years. III: from 1 January in the calendar year he reaches 60 years and throughout the full calendar year in which he reaches 69 years and upwards. Women – Open: from the day she reaches 14 years and upwards (no category restrictions need apply). Junior: from 1 January in the calendar year she reaches 14 years and throughout the full calendar year in which she reaches 23 years. Master I: from 1 January in the calendar year she reaches 40 years and throughout the full calendar year in which she reaches 49 years. II: from 1 January in the calendar year she reaches 50 years and upwards. Competitive lifting shall be restricted to competitors aged 14 years and older. 4 - Placing for all age groupings shall be determined by the totals of the lifters in accordance with the standard rules of lifting. Age categories and their further subdivision may be adapted for use nationally at the discretion of the national federation. Bodyweight categories: Men – (all ages categopries) 56.0kg Class up to 56.0kg. 60.0kg Class from 56.01 to 60.0kg. 67.5kg Class from 60.01 to 67.5kg. 75.0kg Class from 67.51 to 75.0kg. 82.5kg Class from 75.01 to 82.5kg. 90.0kg Class from 82.51 to 90.0kg. 100.0kg Class from 90.01 to 100.0kg. 110.0kg Class from 100.01 to 110.0kg. 125.0kg Class from 110.01 to 125.0kg. 125.0+kg Class from 125.01 to unlimited Women – (all ages categopries) 48.0kg Class up to 48.0kg. 52.0kg Class from 48.01 to 52.0kg. 56.0kg Class from 52.01 to 56.0kg. 60.0kg Class from 56.01 to 60.0kg. 67.5kg Class from 60.01 to 67.5kg. 75.0kg Class from 67.51 to 75.0kg. 82.5kg Class from 75.01 to 82.5kg. 90.0kg Class from 82.51 to 90.0kg. 90.0+kg Class from 90.01 to unlimited. 5 - Each nation is allowed a maximum of ten competitors spread throughout the range of the ten bodyweight categories for men and nine competitors throughout the range of nine bodyweight categories for women. There must not be more than two competitors from any one nation in any particular bodyweight category. 6 - Each nation is allowed a maximum of two alternates or reserves. To take part in the competition they must be nominated on the final nomination form with the bodyweight categories and best totals achieved at national or international championships during the last 12 months. 7 - Each Nation must submit a team roster giving the name of each lifter and his/her body weigh category. Personal bests from national or international championships during the previous 12 months shall be stated. This may include his/her result achieved at last year’s international championships in the same body weight category. The date and title of the competition in which the total was achieved must also be stated. These details must be submitted to the Championship Secretary of the IBSA Powerlifting Subcommittee or region and also the Meet Director at least 21 days before the date of the Championships. Nominated lifters without results from any of the above championships will be ranked in the first group to lift if his/her bodyweight category will be split into groups. Failure to comply with any of these requirements may result in disqualification of the offending team. 8 - Point scoring for all World, Continental and Regional Championships shall be: 12, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2 for the first 9 placing in any bodyweight category. Thereafter, each lifter who makes a total in the competition shall be awarded one point. Point scoring for all national competitions shall be at the discretion of the national federation. 9 - Only the point scores of the six best placed lifters of each nation will be counted for the team competition at all international championships. In case of a tie in points scored, final team placing shall be decided for team awards as in item 11. 10 - Teams shall be nominated to the IBSA Technical Committee and to the meet director at least 6 weeks before the date of championships. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in disqualification of the offending team. 1 - Team awards shall be given for the first three places of each gender. In the case of a tie for the classification of a team or a nation, the team having the largest number of first places will be ranked first. In the case of a tie between two nations having the same number of first places, the one having the most second places will be classified first, and so on through the placing of the six scoring lifters. If a tie still exists between two or more teams (especially in combined Juonir & Masters championship), determine by best single lifter using Wilks formula will be classified first so on through the placing of the six scoring lifters. 2 - At all IBSA powerlifting championships a “Best Lifter ” award shall be given to the lifter who produces the best performances based upon the Wilks formula. Only class winners will be eligible. 3 - At international championships, medals will be presented for first, second and third places for each category based upon totals. In addition, medals or merit award certificates shall be presented for all participants. 4 - CBSA contributes John Baxter award in recognition of the contribution to international blind powerlifting made by John Baxter of Canada. An individual plaque be given to the individual competing in IBSA world powerlifting championships. An annual plaque will be awarded at each IBSA world powerlifting championships. The winner’s name will be placed on this plaque for each year awarded. This plaque will remain in possession of CBSA, to be awarded at each championship held. The lifter must have competed at the previous IBSA world powerlifting championships. The award will be given to the individual lifter who has the greatest increase in total kilograms. The greatest total in kilograms must be lifted in the same body weight class as the previous championship to be eligible for the award. EQUIPMENT AND SPECIFICATIONS Platform All lifts shall be carried out on a platform measuring between 2.5 m x 2.5 m minimum and 4.0 m x 4.0 m maximum. It must not exceed 10 cm in height from the surrounding stage or floor. The surface of the platform must be flat, firm and level and covered with a material of non-slip smooth carpet (i.e. free from irregularities and projections). Rubber matting or similar sheeting materials are not permitted. Bars and Discs For all powerlifting contests organized under the rules of the IPF , IBSA powerlifting, only disc barbells are permitted. The use of discs which do not meet the current specifications will invalidate the contest and any records accomplished. Only those bars and discs that meet all specifications may be used throughout the entire competition and for all lifts. The bar shall not be changed during the competition unless it is bent or damaged in some way as determined by the Technical Committee, Jury or Referees. Bars to be used at all IPF, IBSA powerlifting Championships shall not be chromed on the knurling. Only bars and discs that have official IPF, IBSA powerlifting approval may be used at IPF, IBSA powerlifting World Championships or the setting of World Records. As from 2008 the “knurling” distances on IPF, IBSA powerlifting approved bars will become universal/standard based on one of the originally approved bars. (a) The bar shall be straight and well knurled and grooved and shall conform to the following Dimensions: 1. Total overall length not to exceed 2.2 m. 2. Distance between the collar faces is not to exceed 1.32 m or be less than 1.31 m. 3. Diameter of the bar is not to exceed 29 mm or be less than 28 mm. 4. Weight of the bar and collars are to be 25 kg. 5. Diameter of the sleeve not to exceed 52 mm or be less than 50 mm. 6. There shall be a diameter machined marking or the bar taped so as to measure 81 cm between marking or tape. IPF , IBSA powerlifting recognized powerlifting bar Guideline of knurling distances (b) Discs shall conform as follows : 1. All discs used in competition must weigh within 0.25 percent or 10 grams of their face value. Face Value in Kilos Maximum Minimum 50.0 50.125 49.875 25.0 25.0625 24.9375 20.0 20.05 19.95 15.0 15.037 14.9625 10.0 10.025 9.975 5.0 5.0125 4.9875 2.5 2.51 2.49 1.25 1.26 1.24 .5 .51 .49 .25 .26 .24 2. The hole size in the middle of the disc must not exceed 53 mm or be less than 52 mm. 3. Discs must be within the following range : 1.25 kg, 2.5 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg, 15 kg, 20 kg, 25 kg, and 50 kg. 4. For record purposes, lighter discs may be used to achieve a weight of at least 1 kg more than the existing record. 5. Discs weighing 20 kg and over must not exceed 6 cm in thickness. Discs weighing 15 kg and under must not exceed 3 cm in thickness. Rubber discs do not have to conform to the stated thickness. 6. Discs must conform to the following colour code : 10kg and under - any colour, 15kg - yellow, 20kg - blue, 25kg - red, 50kg - green. 7. All discs must be clearly marked with their weight and loaded in the sequence of heavier discs innermost with the smaller discs in descending weight arranged so that the referees can read the weight on each disc. 8. The first and heaviest discs loaded on the bar must be loaded face in ; with the rest of the discs loaded face out. 9. The diameter of the largest discs shall not be more than 45 cm. 10. Rubber or rubber covered discs are acceptable provided there is a minimum of 10 cm from the outside of the collars to the end of the bar, for grip outside of the discs. Collars (a) Shall always be used. (b) Must weigh 2.5 kg each. Squat Racks 1. Only Squat Racks from commercial Manufacturers officially registered and approved by the Technical Committee shall be permitted for use in International Powerlifting Championships. 2. The squat racks shall be designed to adjust from a minimum height of 1.00 m in the lowest position to extend to a height of at least 1.70 m in 5 cm increments. 3. All hydraulic racks must be capable of being secured at the required height by means of pins. Bench Only Bench Racks and Benches from Commercial Manufacturers officially registered and approved by the Technical Committee shall be permitted for use in International Powerlifting Championships. The bench shall conform to the following dimensions : 1. Length - not less than 1.22 m and shall be flat and level. 2. Width - not less than 29 cm and not exceeding 32 cm. 3. Height - not less than 42 cm and not exceeding 45 cm measured from the floor to the top of the padded surface of the bench without it being depressed or compacted. The height of the uprights, which must be adjustable, shall be a minimum of 75 cm to a maximum of 110 cm measured from the floor to the bar rest position. 4. Minimum width between insides of bar rests shall be 1.10 m. 5. The head of the bench shall extend 22 cm beyond the center of the uprights with a tolerance of 5 cm either way. 6. Attached safety stands must be used in all events. Lights A system of lights shall be provided whereby the referees make known their decisions. A system of lights similar to those used in weightlifting may be used, whereby when a referee detects an infraction he activates his control. If a majority activates their control a buzzer sounds and the lifter knows that his lift has failed. He is not then required to finish the attempt. Each referee will control a white and a red light. These two colours represent a “good lift” and “no lift” respectively. The lights shall be arranged horizontally to correspond with the positions of the three referees. They must be wired in such a way that they light up together and not separately when activated by the three referees. For emergency purposes, i.e. a breakdown in the electrical system, the referees will be provided with small white or red flags or paddles with which to make known their decisions on the Chief Referee’s audible command “flags”. Failure Cards / Paddles After the lights have been activated and appeared, the referee/s will raise a card or paddle or activate a light system to make known the reason/s why the lift has been failed. Referees numbered card system - reason for failure. Colour of the cards: Failure no. 1 = Red Card Failure no. 2 = Blue Card Failure no. 3 = Yellow Card SQUAT BENCHPRESS DEADLIFT 1. (red) Failure to bend the knees and lower the body until the top surface of the legs at the hip joint are lower than the top of the knees 1. (red) Bar is not lowered to chest i.e. not reaching the chest or is touching the abdominal area. 1. (red) Failure to lock the knees straight at the completion of the lift. Failure to stand erect with the shoulders back 2. (blue) Failure to assume an upright position with the knees locked at the commencement and completion of the lift. Any downward movement of the bar during the lift. Changing the position of the bar across the shoulders after the commencement of the lift. Any downward movement of the bar on the back more than the diameter/thickness of the bar below the lifter’s chosen starting position. 2. (blue) Any pronounced or exaggerated uneven extension of the arms during the lift. Any downward movement of the bar in the course of being pressed out. Failure to press the bar to full extension of the arms at the completion of the lift. 2. (blue) Any downward movement of the bar before it reaches the final position. If the bar settles as the shoulders come back this should not be reason to disqualify the lift. Supporting the bar on the thighs during the performance of the lift. If the bar edges up the thighs but is not supported, this is not reason for disqualification. 3. (yellow) Stepping backward or forward although lateral movement of the foot and rocking the feet between the ball and heel is permitted. Failure to observe the Chief Referees signals at the commencement or completion of the lift. Double bouncing or more than one recovery attempt at the bottom of the lift. Contact with bar or lifter by the spotters/loaders between the Chief referees signals, in order to make the lift easier. Contact of elbows or upper arms with the legs, which has supported and been of aid to the lifter. Slight contact that is of no aid may be ignored. Any dropping or dumping of the bar after completion of the lift. Failure to comply with any of the requirements contained in the general description of the lift, which precedes this list of disqualification. 3. (yellow) Heaving, or sinking the bar after it has been motionless on the chest, in such a way as to aid the lifter. Failure to observe the Chief Referees signals at the commencement, during or completion of the lift. Any change in the elected lifting position during the lift proper, i.e. any raising movement of the head, shoulders, buttocks or feet from their original points of contact with the bench or floor or lateral movement of the hands on the bar. Contact with the bar or the lifter by the spotters/ loaders between the Chief Referees signals, in order to make the lift easier. Any contact of the lifters feet with the bench or its supports. Deliberate contact between the bar and the bar rest supports during the lift in order to make the lift easier. Failure to comply with any of the requirements contained in the general description of the lift, which precedes this list of disqualification. 3. (yellow) Lowering the bar before receiving the Chief Referees signal. Allowing the bar to return to the platform without maintaining control with both hands, i.e. releasing the bar from the palms of the hand. Stepping backward or forward although lateral movement of the feet or rocking the feet between the ball and heel is permitted. Failure to comply with any of the requirements contained in the general description of the lift, which precedes this list of disqualification. Scoreboard A proper detailed scoreboard visual to the spectators, officials, and all concerned with the progress of the competition must be provided. The lifters names should be arranged by lot numbers for each session. Championships Scoreboard Group: SQUAT BENCH PRESS DEADLIFT LOT NAME NAT BD/ WT RD1 RD2 RD3 RD1 RD2 RD3 SUB TOT RD1 RD2 RD3 TOT PLACE 1 2 3 14 PERSONAL EQUIPMENT Costume Supportive Only costumes officially registered and approved by the Technical Committee shall be permitted for use in Powerlifting and Bench press Competitions. Non Supportive W/L / Wrestling / Leotard / singlet. Subject to the specifications itemized (c), (d), (e). The suit does not require Technical Committee approval. A lifting costume must be worn and shall be of a one - piece full length lifting suit of one - ply stretch material without any patches, padding or division into panels by means of seams not necessary in the manufacture of the costume. Any seams, false or otherwise, that in the opinion of the Technical Committee, Jury, or in their absence the referees are incorporated into the costume purely as a form of reinforcement or bracing, shall invalidate the costume from being used in the competition. The costume must be form fitting without any looseness when worn by the lifter. The straps must be worn over the shoulders at all times while lifting in competition. The lifting suit shall be subject to the following requirements: (a) It may be of any colour or colours (b) The lifting suit may bear the badge, emblem, logo and / or inscription of the lifter’s national association, or sponsor. That which is offensive or liable to bring the sport into disrepute is not allowed. (Refer to Inspection of Personal Equipment item 10 for Sponsor’s Logos. The lifter’s name may be placed on the costume, or any item of personal apparel. (c) Seams and hems must not exceed 3 cm in width and 0.5 cm in thickness. Only non-supportive leotard / singlet suits may have seams and hems exceeding 3 cm in width. The non-supportive leotard / singlet may also have a double thickness of the same material size 12 cm x 24 cm in the area of the crotch. (d) Seams may be protected or strengthened by narrow gauge webbing or stretch material not exceeding 2 cm in width and 0.5 cm in thickness. (e) It must have legs. The length of leg must be a minimum of 3 cm and maximum of 15 cm. Measurement is to be taken on a line from the top of the crotch down the inside of the leg. The leg of the suit needs not to be cut to form exactly a parallel around the leg. It may be cut higher on the outside of the leg. Non supportive costumes may have leg length to a maximum of 25 cm. (f) Any alterations to the costume which exceed the established widths, lengths or thicknesses previously stated shall make the suit illegal for competition. (g) Although alterations/pleats to form a tightening of the suits and supportive shirts do not make them illegal , these must be made on the original seams. (h) Should a tightening have been made, the excess material must not be folded and sewn back on to the suit. It is recommended that when the costume shoulder straps are shortened they are sewn in such a way that the excess material is under the strap, rather than the unsightly tufts that appear when material is above the straps. T Shirt / Supportive Shirt A T Shirt or support shirt (the support shirt shall be of one ply stretch material) of any colour or colours must be worn under the lifting suit during the performance of the squat and bench press, but is optional for the men in the deadlift. A combination of the two is forbidden. Women must wear a T Shirt or support shirt while competing on all lifts. Support shirts as approved by the Technical Committee and noted in the list of approved equipment and clothing issued periodically by the committee may be worn for all lifts. All of the conditions as defined for the T Shirt, also apply to the support shirt. The support shirt cannot be so long as to cover the buttocks when tucked into the suit and therefore serve as extra support. In addition seams may only be placed in the positions indicated in the diagram. The T Shirt is subject to the following conditions: (a) Does not consist of any rubberized or similar stretch material. (b) Does not have any pockets, buttons, zippers, collar, or vee neck. (c) Does not have reinforced seams. (d) Is made of cotton or polyester or a mixture of cotton and polyester. Denim is not acceptable. (e) It shall not have sleeves which terminate either below the elbow or at the deltoid. Lifters may not push or roll the sleeves of the T-Shirt up to the deltoid when competing in IPF competition. T-Shirts must not be worn inside out. The “Support shirt” as used in the squat and deadlift may be “sleeveless”. (f) Is plain or the official T Shirt of the contest in which the lifter is competing or bears the badge and or inscription of the lifter’s nation, national or regional federation or sponsor. That which is offensive or likely to bring the sport into disrepute is not allowed. The sponsor’s logo must also conform with item 10 under Inspection of Personal Equipment ( Sponsor’s Logos). Briefs A standard commercial “athletic supporter” or standard commercial briefs (not boxer shorts) of any mixture of cotton, nylon or polyester shall be worn under the lifting suit. Women may also wear a commercial or sports bra. Swimming trunks or any garment consisting of rubberized or similar stretch material except in the waistband, shall not be worn under the lifting costume. Any supportive undergarment is not legal for use in IPF competition. Socks Socks may be worn. (a) They may be of any colour or colours and may have manufacturer’s logos. (b) They shall not be of such length on the leg that they come into contact with the knee wraps or knee cap supporter. (c) Full length leg stockings, tights or hose are strictly forbidden. Shin length socks must be worn to cover and protect the shins while performing the deadlift. (d) Light protective guards between sock and shin may be worn. Belt Competitors may wear a belt. If worn, it shall be on the outside of the lifting suit. Materials and Construction : (a) The main body shall be made of leather, vinyl or other similar non-stretch material in one or more laminations which may be glued and / or stitched together. (b) It shall not have additional padding, bracing or supports of any material either on the surface or concealed within the laminations of the belt. (c) The buckle shall be attached at one end of the belt by means of studs and / or stitching. (d) The belt may have a buckle with one or two prongs or “quick release” type (“quick release” referring to lever.) (e) A tongue loop shall be attached close to the buckle by means of studs / or stitching. (f) The name of the lifter, the lifter’s nation, state or club may appear on the outside of the belt. Dimensions : Width of belt maximum 10 cm. Thickness of belt maximum 13 mm along the main length. Inside width of buckle maximum 11 cm. Outside width of buckle maximum 13 cm. Tongue loop maximum width 5 cm. Distance between end of belt and far end of tongue loop maximum 25 cm. Correct Points of Measurement : Shoes or boots Shoes or boots shall be worn. (a) Shoes shall be taken to include only Sports Shoes / Sports Boots ; W/L, P/L Boots or Deadlift Slippers. The above is referring to indoor sports e.g. wrestling/basketball. Hiking boots do not fall into this category (b) No part of the underside shall be higher than 5 cm. (c) The underside must be uniform on both sides. (d) Loose inner soles that are not part of the manufactured shoe shall be limited to one centimeter thickness. Wraps Only wraps of one ply commercially woven elastic that is covered with polyester, cotton or a combination of both materials or medical crepe are permitted. Wrists Wrists wraps shall not exceed 1 m. in length and 8 cm in width. Any sleeves, and velcro patches / tabs for securing must be incorporated within the one meter length. A loop may be attached as an aid to securing. The loop shall not be over the thumb or fingers during the actual lift. Standard commercial sweat bands may be worn, not exceeding 12 cm in width. A combination of wrist wraps and sweat bands is not allowed. A wrist covering shall not extend beyond 10 cm above and 2 cm below the center of the wrist joint and shall not exceed a covering width of 12 cm. Knees Wraps not exceeding 2 m in length and 8 cm in width may be used. A knee wrap shall not extend beyond 15 cm above and 15 cm below the centre of the knee joint and shall not exceed a total covering width of 30 cm. Alternatively, an elasticised knee cap supporter not exceeding 30 cm in length may be worn. Knee sleeves 30 cm in length are also legal and the medical/surgical sleeves is also an option. A combination of the two is strictly forbidden. Neoprene may be “synthetic” rubber but is only acceptable in the knee sleeve. Wraps shall not be in contact with the socks or lifting suit. Wraps shall not be used elsewhere on the body. Supportive wraps: Only wraps from commercial manufacturers officially registered and approved by the Technical Committee shall be permitted for use in powerlifting competitions. Non supportive wraps: Wraps made of medical crepe or bandage and sweatbands do not require Technical Committee approval. Two layers of medical tape may be worn on the thumbs. Medical tape, or its like may not be worn anywhere else on the body without official permission of the Jury, or Chief Referee. Medical tape may not be used as aids to the lifter in holding the bar. Contingent upon prior approval by the Jury, Official Doctor, Paramedic or Paramedical personnel on duty medical tape may be applied to bodily injuries in a fashion that would not grant the lifter an undue advantage. At all competitions where a jury may not be present and no medical personnel are on duty. The Chief Referee shall have jurisdiction over the use of medical tape. Inspection of Personal Equipment (a) The inspection of personal equipment for each and every lifter in the competition may take place at anytime (times may be announced at the Technical Meeting) throughout the meet prior to within twenty minutes of the start for their particular bodyweight category. (b) A minimum of two referees shall be appointed to fulfill this duty. All items shall be examined and approved before being officially stamped or marked. (c) Wraps over permitted length shall be rejected, but may be cut to the correct length and resubmitted. (d) Any item considered unclean or torn shall be rejected. (e) The signed inspection sheet shall be handed to the president of the Jury at the end of the inspection period. (f) If after the inspection a lifter appears on the platform wearing or using any illegal item, other than that which may have inadvertently been passed by the referees, the lifter shall immediately be disqualified from the competition. (g) All items mentioned previously under personal equipment shall be inspected. (h) Hats are strictly forbidden to be worn on the platform during lifting, items such as watches, costume jewelry, mouthpieces, eye wear and feminine hygiene articles need not be inspected. (i) Before attempting a world record the lifter will be inspected by the Technical Controller. If the lifter is found to be wearing or using any illegal item, other than that which may have inadvertently been passed by the referees, the lifter shall be disqualified from the competition. General (a) The use of oil, grease or other lubricants on the body, or personal equipment is strictly forbidden. (b) Baby powder, resin, talc or magnesium carbonates are the only substances that may be added to the body and attire. Not the wraps. (c) The use of any form of adhesive on the underside of footwear is strictly forbidden. This applies to any built in adhesive, e.g. glass paper, emery cloth, etc. And to include resin and magnesium carbonate. A spray of water is acceptable. (d) No foreign substances may be applied to the powerlifting equipment. This takes into account all substances other than that which may be used periodically as a sterile agent in the cleaning of the bar, bench, or platform. POWERLIFTS AND RULES OF PERFORMANCE Squat The lifter shall face the front of the platform. The bar shall be held horizontally across the shoulders, hands and fingers gripping the bar, and the top of the bar not more than the thickness of the bar below the outer edge of the shoulders. The diagram on page 18 indicates the legal position of the bar across the shoulders. The hands may be positioned anywhere on the bar inside and or in contact with the inner collars. After removing the bar from the racks, (the lifter may be aided in removal of the bar from the racks by the spotter / loaders ) the lifter must move backwards to establish the starting position. When the lifter is motionless, erect with knees locked, and the bar properly positioned the Chief Referee will give the signal to begin the lift. The signal shall consist of a downward movement of the arm and the audible command “Squat”. Before receiving the signal to “squat” the lifter may make any position adjustments within the rules, without penalty. For reasons of safety the lifter will be requested to “Replace” the bar, together with a backward movement of the arm, if after a period of five seconds he is not in the correct position to begin the lift. The Chief Referee will then convey the reason why the signal was not given. Upon receiving the Chief Referee’s signal the lifter must bend the knees and lower the body until the top surface of the legs at the hip joint is lower than the top of the knees. Only one decent attempt is allowed. The attempt is deemed to have commenced when the lifters knees have unlocked. The bar may move from its starting position downwards on the lifters back the thickness / diameter of the bar during the performance of the lift. The lifter must recover at will to an upright position with the knees locked. Double bouncing at the bottom of the squat attempt or any downward movement is not permitted. When the lifter is motionless (in the apparent final position ) the Chief Referee will give the signal to rack the bar. The signal to rack the bar will consist of a backward motion of the arm and the audible command “Rack”. The lifter must then move forward and return the bar to the racks. For reasons of safety the lifter may request the aid of the spotter / loaders in returning the bar to, and replacing it in the racks. The lifter must stay with the bar during this process. Not more than five and not less than two spotter / loaders shall be on the platform at anytime. The Referees may decide to the number of spotter / loaders required on the platform at any time 2, 3, 4, or 5. Causes for disqualification of a Squat: Failure to observe the Chief Referee’s signals at the commencement or completion of a lift. Double bouncing at the bottom of the lift, or any downward movement during the ascent. Failure to assume an upright position with the knees locked at the commencement or completion of the lift. Stepping backward or forward although lateral movement of the sole and rocking the feet between the ball and heel is permitted. Failure to bend the knees and lower the body until the top surface of the legs at the hip joint are lower than the top of the knees, as in the diagram. Any movement of the bar on the back more than the diameter / thickness of the bar below its starting position. Contact with the bar or the lifter by the spotter / loaders between the Chief Referee’s signals in order to make the lift easier. Contact of the elbows or upper arms with the legs. Slight contact is permitted if there is no supporting that might aid the lifter. Any dropping or dumping of the bar after completion of the lift. Failure to comply with any of the items outlined under Rules of Performance for the squat. The diagrams below indicate the legal bar position and required depth in the squat: Bench press The bench shall be placed on the platform with the head facing the front or angled up to 45 degrees. The lifter must lie on his back with head, shoulders and buttocks in contact with the bench surface. The feet must be flat on the floor (as flat as the shape of the shoe will allow). His hands and fingers must grip the bar positioned in the rack stands with a thumbs around grip. This position shall be maintained throughout the lift. To achieve firm footing the lifter may use flat surfaced plates or blocks not exceeding 30 cm in total height to build up the surface of the platform. Blocks in the range of 5 cm, 10 cm, 20 cm, 30 cm, should be made available for foot placement at all international competitions. Not more than five and not less than two spotter / loaders shall be on the platform at anytime. After correctly positioning himself, the lifter may enlist the help of the spotter / loaders in removing the bar from the racks. The lift off if assisted by the spotter / loaders must be at arms length. The spacing of the hands shall not exceed 81 cm measured between the forefingers ( both forefingers must be within the 81 cm marks and the whole of the forefingers must be in contact with the 81 cm marks if maximum grip is used). If in the case of some old injury or anatomically the lifter is unable to grip the bar equally with both hands he must inform the referees prior to lift-off for each attempt and if necessary the bar will be marked accordingly. The use of the reverse grip is forbidden. After removing the bar from the racks, with or without the help of the spotter / loaders, the lifter shall wait with elbows locked for the Chief Referee’s signal. The signal shall be given as soon as the lifter is motionless and the bar properly positioned. For reasons of safety the lifter will be requested to “Re-place” the bar, together with a backward movement of the arm, if after a period of five seconds he is not in the correct position to begin the lift. The Chief Referee will then convey the reason why the signal was not given. The signal to begin the attempt shall consist of a downward movement of the arm together with the audible command “Start”. After receiving the signal, the lifter must lower the bar to the chest (the chest, for the purpose of the rule, finishes at the base of the sternum breastbone), hold it motionless on the chest, after which the Chief referee will signal the audible command “Press”. The lifter must then return the bar to arms length with no excessive / immoderate uneven extension of the arms. When held motionless in this position the audible command “Rack” shall be given together with a backward motion of the arm. If anatomically, the arms cannot be fully extended the lifter must produce a certificate issued by the Medical Committee. Causes for Disqualification of a Bench press 1. Failure to observe the Chief Referee’s signals at the commencement, during, or completion of the lift. 2. Any change in the elected lifting position during the lift proper i.e. any raising movement of the head, shoulders, or buttocks, from the bench, or movement of the feet on the floor / blocks / plates / or lateral movement of hands on the bar. 3. Heaving, or sinking the bar into the chest after it is motionless in such a way as to make the lift easier. 4. Any pronounced / exaggerated uneven extension of the arms during the lift. 5. Any downward movement of the bar in the course of being pressed out. 6. Failure to press the bar to full extension of the arms at the completion of the lift. 7. Contact with the bar or the lifter by the spotter / loaders between the Chief Referee’s signals, in order to make the lift easier. 8. Any contact of the lifter’s feet with the bench or its supports. 9. Deliberate contact between the bar and the bar rests support. 10. Failure to comply with any of the items outlined under the Rules of Performance. Deadlift The lifter shall face the front of the platform with the bar laid horizontally in front of the lifters feet, gripped with an optional grip in both hands and lifted until the lifter is standing erect. On completion of the lift the knees shall be locked in a straight position and the shoulders back. The Chief Referee’s signal shall consist of a downward movement of the arm and the audible command “Down”. The signal will not be given until the bar is held motionless and the lifter is in the apparent finished position. Any raising of the bar or any deliberate attempt to do so will count as an attempt. Once the attempt has begun no downward movement is allowed until the lifter reaches the erect position with the knees locked. If the bar settles as the shoulders come back (slightly downward on completion) this should not be reason to disqualify the lift. Causes for Disqualification of a Deadlift. Any downward movement of the bar before it reaches the final position. Failure to stand erect with the shoulders back. Failure to lock the knees straight at the completion of the lift. Supporting the bar on the thighs during the performance of the lift. If the bar edges up the thigh but is not supported this is not reason for disqualification. The lifter should benefit in all decisions of doubt made by the referee. Stepping backward or forward, although lateral movement of the feet or rocking of the feet between ball and heel is permitted. Lowering the bar before receiving the Chief Referee’s signal. Allowing the bar to return to the platform without maintaining control with both hands, i.e. : releasing the bar from the palms of the hand. Failure to comply with any of the items outlined under Rules of Performance. The diagram below shows a description of supporting the bar on the thighs: WEIGHING IN 1. Weighing in of the competitors must take place no earlier than two hours before the start of the competition for a particular category/categories. All lifters in the category/categories must attend the weigh in, which will be carried out in the presence of two/three appointed referees. Weight categories may be combined in a single lifting session. 2. If not already done, lots will be drawn to establish the order of weigh in. The lots drawn also establish the order of lifting throughout the competition when lifters require the same weights for their attempts. 3. The weigh in period will last one and a half hours. 4. The weigh in for each competitor will be carried out in a room with the door closed, with only the competitor, his coach or manager and the two/three referees present. For reason of hygiene the lifter should wear socks / paper towel on scales platform. 5. Lifters may be weighed nude or in underwear which complies with the specifications set out in the appropriate section of the rule book and which does not effectively change the lifter’s weight. If a question exists regarding weight of undergarments, a re-weigh in the nude may be requested. In competitions in which women are competitors, the weigh in procedure may be altered to ensure that lifters are weighed by officials of their own sex. Additional female officials may be appointed for this purpose. 6. Each lifter may only be weighed once. Only those whose bodyweight is heavier or lighter than the category limits of the category entered are allowed to return to the scales. They must return to the scales and make weight within the limits of the hour and a half allowed for the weigh in; otherwise they will be eliminated from the competition for that bodyweight category. A lifter can only be re-weighed as often as time and orderly progression by lots allows. A lifter may only be weighed outside the time limit of one and a half hours if he presents himself within the time limit, but due to the number of lifters trying to make weight, he is denied the opportunity of mounting the scales. He may then be allowed one re-weigh at the discretion of the referees. The lifter’s agreed bodyweight must not be made public until all lifters competing in the particular category/categories have been weighed in. 7. A lifter shall be nominated in his normal bodyweight category. However, each lifter will have the option of changing categories up or down from that in which he was originally nominated on the final team nomination form. If the lifter wishes to exercise this option, he must present himself to the Chief Referee at the weigh in room ten minutes before the commencement of the weigh in for his final choice of bodyweight category. If he wishes to move up, the lifter must also report to the Chief Referee of his originally nominated lower category, ten minutes before the commencement of the weigh in for that category in order to be excused. If a lifter changes categories and the lot draw has already been carried out, then the lifter shall be placed at the top of the draw. If the lifter’s new bodyweight category is to be split into alternating groups because of the number of competitors, then unless he can produce irrefutable evidence of a total made in the new category during the preceding twelve months at a national or international level, he will automatically be placed in the first group to lift. It is also courteous to let the Chief Referee from ones originally nominated class know of the move, he may not have received the information or to have been in the vicinity of the venue at the time. Example (a) - A lifter nominated at 90 kg wishes to lift at 82.5 kg. He must present himself to the Chief Referee of the 82.5 kg category ten minutes before the commencement of the weigh in for that category. Example (b) - A lifter nominated at 90kg wishes to lift at 100kg. He must report to the Chief Referee of the 90kg category ten minutes before the weigh in commences and state that he wishes to move up into the 100kg category and therefore does not wish to weigh in. He must then also present himself to the Chief Referee of the 100kg category ten minutes before the commencement of the weigh in for that category. It is the responsibility of the lifter to know the bodyweight category for which he was originally nominated. A claim that an error had been made on the final nomination form will not be accepted. In the case where groups are formed e.g. A-B and or C group,any lifter moving up from his nominated weight category at the technical meeting,must present himself ten minuts before the scales open for his nominated category and inform the officials of his intensions.any lifter changing weight categories will be placed in the group,if groups are split in three or ,or the B group if split in two 8. Lifters should check squat and bench press rack heights and foot blocks prior to the start of the competition. The rack height sheet must be signed or initialed after the check by the lifter or coach. It is in their interest. A copy of this official document goes to the Jury, Speaker and Platform Manager/Controller. ORDER OF COMPETITION 1-The Round System (a) At the weigh in, the lifter or his coach must declare a starting weight for all three lifts. These must be entered on the appropriate first attempt card, signed by the lifter or his coach and retained by the official conducting the weigh in. The speaker’s card is deemed to be the appropriate first attempt card. The lifter will then be given eleven blank attempt cards for use during the competition. Three for the squat, three for the bench press and five for the dead lift. Each lift distinguished by using a different coloured card. Having made his first attempt at a lift, the lifter or his coach must decide upon the weight required for his second attempt. This weight must be filled in where indicated upon the card and submitted to the competition secretary or other appointed official before the one minute time allowance has elapsed. The same procedure is to be used for the second and third attempts on all three lifts. Responsibility for submitting attempts within the time limit rests solely with the lifter or his coach. Under the round system, the need for numerous marshals is eliminated, the attempt card being handed directly to the designated official. Examples of attempt cards are illustrated. Remember that the box for first attempts on the cards in the lifters possession are only to be used for the permitted first attempt change if required. Similarly, the fourth and fifth boxes on the dead lift card are only to be used for the two permitted changes on the third attempt dead lift if required. In single benchpress competitions a card similar to that of the dead lift will be used. SPEAKER’s CARD Name, Surname: Birth date: Nation: Bodyweight: Class: Wilks formula: Lot number: Signature: lifter / coach Discipline 1st attempt 2nd attempt 3rd attempt Best attempt Squat Bench press Subtotal Subtotal Deadlift Grouping: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Placing: Wilks points: Total Attempt card Chosen weight here. Coach or Lifter For changing 3rd attempt (b) Where 10 or more lifters are competing in a session, groups may be formed consisting of approximately equal numbers of lifters. However, groups must be formed when 15 or more lifters are competing in the same session. A session can be composed of a single bodyweight category or any combination of bodyweight categories at the discretion of the organizer for purpose of presentation. (c) Grouping shall be determined by examining the lifters’ best totals achieved at national or international level during the previous twelve months. The lifters with the lowest totals will form the first group to lift with progressively higher totals forming further groups as necessary. Where a lifter has not provided a total for the previous twelve months, then that lifter shall automatically be placed in the first group to lift. This also applies to lifters wishing to move up or down from their originally nominated category. (d) Each lifter will take his first attempt in the first round, his second attempt in the second round and his third attempt in the third round. (e) When a group consist of less than 6 lifters, compensatory time allowances shall be added at the end of each round as follows: For 5 lifters add 1 minutes; 4 lifters add 2 minutes; 3 lifters add 3 minutes. Three minutes is the maximum allowance permitted at the end of a round. Should a lifter follow himself when the compensatory clock is in operation, 3 minutes is the maximum allowance permitted. For compensatory time where groups are involved, unloading of the bar will take place at the end of the compensatory time, reloaded, then the one minute to begin the attempt. (f) The bar must be loaded progressively during each round on the principle of a rising bar. At no time will the weight on the bar be lowered within a round except for errors as described in item (i), and then only at the end of a round. (g) Lifting order within each round will be determined by the lifter’s choice of weight for that round. In the event of two lifters choosing the same weight, the lifter with the lowest lot number drawn at the weigh in will lift first. The same applies to third round dead lift attempts, whereby the weight may be changed twice, subject to the bar not having already been loaded to the lifters originally chosen weight. Example: lifter A with lot number 5 puts in 250.0 kg. lifter B with lot number 2 puts in 252.5 kg. Lifter A fails with 250.0 kg. Can Lifter B drop the weight to 250.0 kg to win? No, the order of lifting is still determined by the lot number. (h) If unsuccessful with an attempt, the lifter does not follow himself, but must wait until the next round before he can attempt that weight again. (i) If in a round an attempt is unsuccessful due to a wrongly loaded bar, spotter error or equipment failure, the lifter will be granted a further attempt at the correct weight. If the fault is a wrongly loaded bar and the attempt has not actually started, then the lifter shall be given the option of either continuing at that time or taking another attempt at the end of the round. In all other cases, the lifter shall take his extra attempt at the end of the round. If the lifter also happens to be the last lifter in the round, he shall be granted a three minute rest prior to making his attempt, last but one in the round two minutes, last but two in the round one minute. In these cases where lifters are following themselves and given compensatory rest time the bar will be loaded as soon as the new attempt is turned in. The compensatory time will then be added to the usual one minute to begin the attempt. The clock will be started and the lifter will have that time to begin his attempt. Lifters following themselves will have four minutes time placed on the clock, during which time the lifter can begin his attempt as soon as he is ready. Lifters last but one in the round will be given three minutes, last but two in the round will be given two minutes, all others will be given the usual one minute to begin the attempt. (j) A lifter is permitted one change of weight on the first attempt of each lift. The change of weight may be higher or lower than that originally submitted and the order of lifting in the first round will change accordingly. If he is in the first group, this change may take place at any time up to within five minutes before the start of the first round of that lift. The following groups are accorded a similar privilege up to within five attempts from the end of the previous group’s last round of that lift. Prior notice of these deadlines shall be announced by the speaker. If proper notice of these deadlines is not given, then an announcement authorizing such changes shall be made and a lifter may make a change within one minute of such announcement. (k) A lifter must submit his second and third attempts within one minute of completing his preceding attempt. The one minute will begin from the time that the lights are activated. If no weight is submitted within the one minute time allowance, the lifter will be granted a 2.5 kg increase on his next attempt. Should the lifter have failed his previous attempt and not submitted a weight for a further attempt within the one minute time allowance, then the bar will be loaded to the failed weight. (l) Weights submitted for second round attempts on all three lifts cannot be changed. Similarly third round attempts on the squat and bench press cannot be changed. Under this rule once an attempt is turned in, it cannot be withdrawn. The bar shall be loaded to the turned-in weight and the clock will be run. (m) In the third round of the dead lift, two changes are permitted. The change of weight may be higher or lower than the lifter’s previously submitted third attempt. However, these are only permitted provided that the lifter has not been called to the bar already loaded to his previously submitted weight by the speaker. (n) If a lifting session consists of a single group, i.e. up to a maximum of 14 lifters, an interval of 15 minutes shall be allowed between the lifts. This is to ensure adequate time for warm up and platform organization. (o) When two or more groups take part in a session upon a single platform, lifting will be organized on a group repetition basis. No time interval will be allowed between rounds other than that necessary for arranging the platform. For example, if there are two groups taking part in a session, the first group will complete all three rounds of the squat. They will be followed immediately by the second group who will complete their three rounds of squat. The platform will then be set up for the bench press and the first group will complete their three rounds of the bench press, immediately followed by the second group who will similarly complete their three rounds of the bench press. The platform will then be set up for the deadlift and the first group will complete their three rounds of the dead lift, immediately followed by the second group who will similarly complete their three rounds of the dead lift. This system thus eliminates any time waste other than that necessary for arranging the platform between the lifts. The IBSA Powerlifting sub-committee with co-operation and assistance of the organizer will appoint the following officials: (a) Speaker/Announcer, preferably an international referee who is able to converse in English and that of the host nation. (b) Technical Secretary: an International Referee preferably able to converse and write in English and that of the host nation. (c) Time Keeper (preferably a qualified referee). (d) Marshals/Expeditors (e) Scorers. (f) Spotters/Loaders. Correct code of dress - meet T-Shirt or regular T-Shirt uniform in colour. Tracksuit trousers uniform in colour. Trainers or sports shoes. (g) Technical controller ( a qualified international referee). Additional officials may be appointed as required, e.g. doctors, paramedics etc. 2-Responsibilities of the Officials are: (a) The Speaker is responsible for the efficient running of the competition. He acts as Master of Ceremonies and arranges the attempts chosen by the lifters in an orderly fashion, dictated by weight and, if necessary, lot number. He announces the weight required for the next attempt and the name of the lifter. When the bar is loaded and the platform cleared for lifting, the Chief Referee will indicate the fact to the Speaker. When the Speaker announces that the bar is ready and calls the lifter to the platform, the clock will begin. To clarify: when the Speaker announced that the bar is “ready / loaded”, then the lifter is committed to the attempt. Attempts announced by the speaker must be displayed upon the scoreboard erected in a prominent position, with the lifters names in order of lot number. (b) The Technical Secretary is responsible for attending the technical meeting prior to the competition. In the absence of the Technical Committee or a member of that committee the Technical Secretary will compile the Jury and Referee schedules from the names of those referees declared available for duty throughout the competition. He will complete the necessary “Duty Referees and Jury Members” lists for the competition and inform referees of categories to which they have been allocated. After the technical meeting when final team nominations have been compiled, the Technical Secretary will initiate a score sheet,non itemized equipment check sheet, rack height sheet and order of weigh in sheet for each category in the competition, entering the names of all lifters nominated in that category. Lots may also be drawn at this stage to establish weigh in and lifting order. He will also make out speaker competition cards for every lifter in the category. The above paper work together with an adequate supply of lifter’s attempt slips/cards will be placed in the appropriate envelope for each bodyweight category in the competition and handed to the Chief Referee for that category. The Technical Secretary will attend each weigh in and advise the duty referees upon procedure and any matters that require attention. He should be a qualified Category 1 referee, preferably from the host nation and able to deal with any problem that may arise due to language difficulties at the venue. It is the responsibility of the Meet Director to provide all necessary blank forms and paperwork to enable the technical secretary to carry out his work. A complete dossier on the job description together with all relative paperwork can be obtained from the IBSA powerlifting sub-committee free of charge available to all Meet Directors. (c) The Timekeeper is responsible for accurately recording the lapse between the announcement that the bar is ready and the lifter starting his attempt. He is also responsible for recording time allowances whenever required, e.g. after an attempt the lifter shall leave the platform within 30 seconds. Once the clock is running for a lifter, it can only be stopped by the completion of a time allowance, by the start of the lift, or at the discretion of the Chief Referee. Consequently, it is of great importance that the lifter or his coach check the height of the squat racks prior to being called, as once the bar is announced as being ready, the clock will be started. Any further adjustments to the racks must be made within the lifter’s one minute allowance, unless the lifter has nominated his rack height and this has been incorrectly set by the spotter/loaders. It is therefore essential that the rack height sheet be signed or initialed by the lifter or coach. This is an official document, which should verify in any dispute. The lifter is allowed one minute in which to start his attempt after the speaker calls the lifter to the bar. If he does not start his attempt within this time allowance, the time keeper will call time and the Chief Referee shall give the audible command “rack” together with a backward movement of the arm. The lift will be declared “no lift” and the attempt forfeited. When the lifter starts the lift within the prescribed time allowance, the clock will be stopped. The definition of the start of an attempt depends upon the particular lift being performed. In the squat and bench press, the start is to coincide with the Chief Referee’s commencement signal. Refer to “Referees”, Item 3. In the deadlift, the start is when the lifter makes a determined attempt to raise the bar. (d) Marshals/Expeditors are responsible for collecting the weight of required attempts from the lifters or their coaches and passing the information without delay to the speaker. The lifter is allowed one minute between completing his last attempt and informing the speaker, via the marshal, of the weight required for his next attempt. (e) Scorers are responsible for accurately recording the progress of the competition and, on completion, ensuring that the three referees sign the official score sheets, record certificates or any other document requiring signatures. Speaker to make an announcement to this effect before the referees disappear. (f) Spotters/Loaders are responsible for loading and unloading the bar, adjusting squat racks and benches as required, cleaning the bar or platform at the request of the Chief Referee, and generally ensuring that the platform is well maintained and presents a neat and tidy appearance at all times. At no time shall there be less than two or more than five spotters/loaders on the platform. When the lifter prepares for his attempt, the spotters/loaders may assist him in removing the bar from the racks. They may also assist in replacing the bar after the attempt. However, they shall not touch the lifter or the bar during the actual attempt, i.e. during the period of time that elapses between the commencement and completion signals. The only exception to this rule being that if the lift is in jeopardy and likely to result in injury to the lifter, the spotters/loaders may, either at the request of the Chief Referee or the lifter himself, step in and relieve the lifter of the bar. If the lifter himself is deprived of an otherwise successful attempt by the error of a spotter/loader and through no fault of his own, he shall be awarded another attempt at the discretion of the Referees and Jury at the end of the round. (g) the technical controller will ensure thet the lifter is that as announced and properly attired before mounting the palteform. 3-During any competition taking place on a platform or stage, only the lifter and his coach, members of the Jury, officiating referees and spotters/loaders will be allowed around the platform or on the stage. During the execution of the lift, only the lifter, spotter / loaders and the referees are permitted to be present on the platform. Coaches shall remain within the designated coaching area as defined by the Jury or Technical Officer in charge. 4-A lifter shall not wrap, adjust his costume or use ammonia within view of the public. The only exception to this rule being that he may adjust his belt. 5-In international matches between two lifters or two nations contested in different bodyweight categories, the lifters may alternate irrespective of weight required for the attempts. The lifter requiring the lightest weight in his initial lift shall lift first and thereby set the order for the alternate attempts throughout that particular lift. 6-In IBSA powerlifting recognized competitions, the weight of the barbell must always be a multiple of 2.5 kg.unless attempts are made on records The progression must be at least 2.5 kg between all attempts. The weight shall be announced in kilograms. (a) In a record attempt the weight of the barbell must be at least 1 kg in excess of the current record. (b) During the course of competition a lifter may request a record attempt that is not a multiple of 2.5 kg. If the attempt is successful, it will be added to both the individual lift and total. (c) Record attempts may be taken on any or all of the lifter’s prescribed attempts provided that he maintains a minimum increase of 1 kg. (d) A lifter may only take increments of less than 2.5 for record attempts in the championship in which he is competing, e.g. a Master lifting in an open competition cannot take less than 2.5 kg to achieve Master’s records. (e) In the event of a weight posted for the following round, which is not a multiple of 2.5 kg to exceed a record, the weight will be reduced to the nearest multiple of 2.5 kg, should a fellow competitor have exceeded this weight in the previous round. Example 1: the current record is 302.5 kg. Lifter A squats 300 kg in the first round, then post 303.5 kg, Lifter B squats 305 kg in the first round. Lifter A second attempt now is reduced to 302.5 kg. Example 2: the current record is 300 kg. Lifter A posts only a 1 kg increment (301 kg ) having achieved his first attempt of 300 kg in the above scenario. Lifter B squats 305 kg in the first round, Lifter A must now take the nearest 2.5 kg above (302.5kg). 7-The Chief Referee will be solely responsible for decisions taken in the case of loading errors or incorrect announcements by the speaker. His decisions will be given to the speaker who will make the appropriate announcement. Examples of Errors in Loading (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 originally requested weight. If the attempt is not successful, the lifter will be granted a further attempt at the originally requested weight. In both the above cases, further attempts may only be taken at the end of the round in which the error occurred. (b) If the bar is loaded to a heavier weight than originally requested and the attempt is successful, the lifter will be granted the attempt. However, the weight may be reduced again if required for other lifters. If the attempt is not successful, the lifter will be granted a further attempt at the end of the round in which the error occurred. (c) If the loading is not the same on each end of the bar, or any change occurs to the bar or discs during the execution of the lift. or the platform is disarranged. If, despite these factors, the lift is successful, the lifter may accept the attempt or elect to take the attempt again. If the successful attempt is not a multiple of 2.5 kg, then the lower closest multiple of 2.5 kg will be recorded on the score sheet. If the attempt is unsuccessful, the lifter will be granted a further attempt. Further attempts may only be taken at the end of the round in which the error occurred. (d) If the speaker makes a mistake by announcing a weight lighter or heavier than that requested by the lifter. The Chief Referee will make the same decisions as for errors in loading. (e) If for any reason it is not possible for the lifter or his coach to remain in the vicinity of the platform in order to follow the progress of the competition and the lifter misses his attempt because the speaker omitted to announce him at the appropriate weight, then the weight will be reduced as necessary and the lifter allowed to take his attempt, but only at the end of the round. 8-Three unsuccessful attempts in any lift will automatically eliminate the lifter from the overall competition. 9-Other than initial removal of the bar from the racks, the lifter will not receive any help from the spotters/loaders in positioning himself for an attempt. 10-On the completion of an attempt, a lifter shall leave the platform within 30 seconds, failure to comply with this rule may result in disqualification of the attempt at the discretion of the referees. This rule was designed for lifters who may have received some injury during the course of the lift, or perhaps the less able-bodied, e.g. the blind lifter. 11-If, during warm up or competition, a lifter suffers injury or in any other way exhibits signs of a condition which may unduly or significantly jeopardize the competitor’s health and well being, the official doctor has the right to examination. If the doctor considers it inadvisable for the lifter to continue he may, in consultation with the Jury, insist upon the lifter retiring from the competition. The team manager or coach must be officially informed of such a decision. To avoid contamination a solution of one part household bleach to 10 parts water is recommended to clean blood or tissue from the bar or platform and that in the warm up area should "accidents" occur. 12-Any lifter or coach who, by reason of his misconduct upon or near the competition platform, is likely to discredit the sport, shall be officially warned. If the misconduct continues, the Jury, or Referees in the absence of the Jury, may disqualify the lifter or coach and order the lifter or coach to leave the venue. The team manager must be officially informed of both warning and disqualification. 13-The Jury and Referees may by a majority decision immediately disqualify a lifter or official if they are of the opinion that any misconduct is serious enough to warrant immediate disqualification rather than an official warning. The team manager must be informed of the disqualification. 14-In international competition, all appeals against referee’s decisions, complaints regarding the progress of the competition or against the behaviour of any person or persons taking part in the competition must be made to the Jury. The Jury may require the appeal to be made in writing. The appeal or complaint must be lodged with the Chairman of the Jury by the team manager, coach or in his absence, by the lifter. This must be done immediately following the action upon which the appeal or complaint is based.It will not be considered unless these terms are met. 15-If deemed necessary, the Jury may temporarily suspend the progress of the competition and retire to consider its verdict. After due consideration and upon reaching a majority verdict, the Jury will return and the Chairman will inform the complainant of its decision. The Jury’s verdict will be considered final and there will be no right of appeal to any other body. Upon re-commencement of the competition which has been suspended, the next lifter shall be given three minutes in which to commence his lift. In the event of a complaint being made against a lifting member or official of an opposing team, the written complaint shall be accompanied by the cash sum of Euro 75 or its equivalent in any currency. Should the Jury in its verdict consider that the complaint is of a frivolous or mischievous nature, then the whole or any portion of the sum may be retained and donated to the IBSA Powerlifting sub-committee at the discretion of the Jury. REFEREES The referees shall be three in number, the Chief Referee or Center Referee and two side referees. The Chief Referee is responsible for giving the necessary signals for all three lifts. Signals required for the three lifts are as follows : Lift Commencement Completion Squat A visual signal consisting of a downward movement of the arm together with the audible command “squat” A visual signal consisting of a backward movement of the arm together with the audible command “rack” Bench press A visual signal consisting of a downward movement of the arm together with the audible command “start”. During. The audible command “Press” after motionless at the chest. A visual signal consisting of a backward movement of the arm together with the audible command “rack” Deadlift No signal required A visual signal consisting of a downward movement of the arm together with the audible command “down” 4. Once the bar has been replaced in the racks or on the platform at the completion of the lift, the referees will announce their decisions by means of the lights: white for a “good lift” and red for “no lift”. The cards will then be raised to indicate the reason for the “no lift”. 5. The three referees may seat themselves in what they consider to be the best viewing positions around the platform for each of the three lifts. However, the Chief Referee must always bear in mind the need to be visible to the lifter performing the squat or dead lift, and the side referees should always bear in mind the need to be visible to the Chief Referee so that he can observe their raised arms. 6. Before the contest, the three referees shall jointly ascertain that: (a) The platform and competition equipment comply in all respects with the rules. Bars and discs are checked for weight discrepancies and defective equipment discarded. A second bar and collars should be readied and put aside in case of damage to the original bar or collars. (b) The scales work correctly and are accurate. (certified) (c) The lifters weigh in within the limits of weight and time for their bodyweight category. (d) The lifter’s costumes and personal equipment has been inspected to comply with the rules in all respects. It is the duty of the lifter to ensure that all items he wishes to wear on the platform have passed the scrutiny of the examining referees. Lifters discovered wearing or using apparel that has not been checked in may be subject to penalty, e.g. disqualification of the last attempt. 7. During the contest the three referees must jointly ascertain that: (a) The weight of the loaded bar agrees with the weight announced by the speaker. Referees may be issued with loading charts for this purpose. It is the joint responsibility. (b) On the platform the lifter’s costume and personal equipment complies with the rules. If any referee has reason to doubt a lifter’s integrity in this respect he must, after completion of the lift, inform the Chief Referee of his suspicions. The president of the Jury may then examine the lifter’s costume and personal equipment. If the lifter is found to be wearing or using any illegal item other than that which may have inadvertently been passed in error by the examining referees, the lifter shall be immediately disqualified from the competition. If wearing any illegal item passed in error by the examining referees, and the lift in which the discovery was made is successful, the lift will be rejected and then the lifter will be granted a new attempt (having removed the illegal item) at the end of the round. 8. Prior to the commencement of the Squat and Bench Press, the side referees will raise their arms and keep them raised until the lifter is in the correct position to begin the lift. If there is a majority opinion among the referees that a fault exists, the Chief Referee will not give the signal to commence the lift. The lifter has the remainder of his unexpired time allowance in which to correct the position of the bar or his stance in order to receive the commencement signal. Once a lift has commenced, the side referees will not call attention to faults during the execution of the lift. 9. Referees shall abstain from commentary and not receive any document or verbal account concerning the progress of the competition. Therefore, it is essential that the lot number of each lifter accompanies his name on the scoreboard so that the referees can follow the order of lifting. 10. A referee shall not attempt to influence the decisions of the other referees. 11. The Chief Referee may consult with the side referees, the Jury or any other official as necessary in order to expedite the competition. 12. At his discretion, the Chief Referee may order that the bar and/or platform be cleaned. If the lifter or coach request the bar and/or platform to be cleaned, the request must be made via the Chief Referee, not the spotters/loaders. In the final round of the dead lift the bar must be cleaned before every attempt. 13. After the competition, the three referees shall sign the official score sheets, record certificates or any other documents requiring a signature. 14. In international competition, referees and jury members will be selected by the IBSA Powerlifting sub-committee chairman in collaboration with the head of referees board and must have proved their competence at international or national championships. 15. In international competitions, it is up to IBSA powerlifting referees board to make the decision which category they will referee. When possible, the three referees shall be from different nations. Referees of the same nationality may be selected to adjudicate the same category. 16. The selection of a referee to act as Chief Referee in one category does not preclude his selection as side referee in another category. 17. At World Championships, or any other championships where attempts are to be made on world records, only IPF Category 1 or Category 2 referees adjudicate. Each nation may nominate 1 to three referees to serve at the World Championships, plus referees who may do Jury duty. However, the host nation has an exception at this rule; they may have more than three international referees,if neccessary. 18. Referees and members of the Jury will be uniformly dressed as follows: Men Winter - Dark blue blazer with appropriate IPF badge on the left breast, grey trousers with a white shirt and appropriate IPF tie. Summer - White shirt and grey trousers. Ties optional. Women Winter - Dark blue blazer with appropriate IPF badge on the left breast, grey skirt or trousers and a white blouse or shirt. The wearing of the appropriate tie is optional. Summer - grey skirt or trousers and a white blouse or shirt. IPF badges and ties are red for category 1 referees and blue for category 2 referees. The Jury shall determine whether winter or summer dress will be worn. Shoes known as “trainers” do not compliment blazer and trousers! Dress/Day wear should be worn. Jury 1. At world and continental championships, a Jury will be appointed to preside over each lifting session. 2. The Jury shall consist of three Category 1 referees. In the absence of a member of referees board, the most senior member of the three shall be designated President of the Jury. 3. When it is possible, the members of the Jury shall all be from different nations. However, if this is not possible a jury of the same nationality may be selected to adjudicate the same category. 4. The function of the Jury is to ensure that the technical rules are correctly applied. 5. During the competition the Jury may, by a majority vote, replace any referee whose decisions, in its opinion, prove him to be incompetent. The referee concerned must have received a warning prior to any action of dismissal. 6. The impartiality of referees cannot be doubted, but a mistake in refereeing can be committed in good faith. In such a case, the referee shall be allowed to give his explanation for making the decision which is the subject of his warning. 7. If a protest is made to the Jury against a referee, then the referee may be informed of the protest. The Jury should not put unnecessary stress on platform referees. 8. If a serious mistake occurs in the refereeing which is contrary to the technical rules, the Jury may take appropriate action to correct the mistake. They may, at their discretion, grant the lifter a further attempt. 9. Only in extreme circumstances - when there has been an obvious or blatant mistake in the refereeing - will the Jury, in consultation with the referees, reverse the decision. 10. The members of the Jury will be positioned to ensure an unimpeded view of the competition. 11. Before each competition, the President of the Jury must satisfy himself that the members of the Jury have a complete knowledge of their role and any new regulations that amend or supplement those contained in the current edition of the rulebook. 12-The selection of lifters for drug testing shall always be made by doping commission. 13. If music accompanies the lifting, the Jury will determine the volume. The music will terminate when the lifter takes the weight of the bar in the squat and bench press or begins the pull in the deadlift. IBSA Powerlifting Subcommittee 1. Will consist of a chairman and other committee members. 2. The chairman will appoint other committee members. These persons are appointed as follows: Vice-chairman; Head of referees board and nine related members; Head of coaches board and four related members; and Record Registrar , at world championships ,the chairman ,vice-chairman ,head of referees board and at least six related members must attend .travel,accomodation and meal expenses will be provided by the organizing committee. 3. Decisions are subject to approval by the IBSA Powerlifting Subcommittee. 4. The Subcommittee shall appoint the jury and referees at every IBSA competition in collaboration with the head of referees board. 5. Informs all necessary IBSA Executive and IBSA member countries concerning championships rule changes and all other powerlifting matters. 6. Has the right to re-write or modify the rules in collaboration with the IBSA Technical Director. 7. Has the right to approve or reject proposals for rule changes sent in by the member nations. However, the IBSA Powerlifting Sub-committee must have in mind that we mostly follow the rules of IPF. 8. Publishes approved proposals on materials, technical methods and performance of competition lifts to each member nation and necessary IBSA Executive. 9. Will be responsible for inspecting all competitions and personal equipment as defined in the rulebook, and any equipment that has been submitted by IPF for the purpose of being able to use the words” IPF Approved “. 10. That IPF personal equipment of IPF technical rules be adopted for IBSA powerlifting competitions, with the exception of IPF list of approved manufacturers. 11. Personal sponsorship is not approved on costume or personal equipment, but team uniforms are up to each nation’s discretion. 12. There must be sight classification tests in all IBSA powerlifting championships. WORLD RECORDS World, Continental, Regional and National Championships World records may only made at the above named .that is ,championships sanctioned and recognized by the IBSA , world records will be accepted without weighing the barbell or the lifter, provided that the lifter had weighed in correctly before the competition and that the Referees or the referees board had checked the weight of the barbell and the discs before the competition. Men’s 50-59 records exceeding those gained in the 40-49 age group will be included in the 40-49 category. Men’s 60+ records exceeding those gained in the 50-59 age group will be included in the 50-59 category. Women’s 50+ records exceeding those gained in the 40-49 age group will be included in the 40-49 category. World records set at a non-IBSA competition may be considered by application to the Subcommittee if the requirements of item 2 of this page have been met. 2-Requirements for recognition of a world record are as follows: (a) The national championship or international competition must be held under sanction of national federation affiliated to the IBSA. (b) Each of the adjudicating referees must hold a current IPF International Referee’s Card and be a member of a national federation affiliated to the IPF. (c) The good faith and competence of referees of all member nations is beyond dispute. Consequently, a world record can be assured by referees of the same nation. (d) World records can only be accepted if drug testing was carried out on the lifter immediately following the competition for his bodyweight category and in accordance with IBSA ,WADA drug testing protocol. The result must be negative forwarded to the IBSA technical director and IBSA powerlifting sub-committee chairman within 3 months beginning form the date of championship. (e) Only bars and discs that are listed on the IPF Approved list of apparel and equipment for use at IBSA sanctioned competition, as current at the time, may be used in the setting of World Records. (f)-Records on individual lifts must be accompanied by a total of the three lifts. In the event of two lifters breaking either a current individual or total record of the same weight, the lifter with the lowest bodyweight at the weigh in will be declared the new record holder. If both lifters register the same bodyweight at the weigh in, the lifter breaking the record first will be the record holder. New records are only valid if they exceed the previous record by at least 1 kg. . There is an official world record for the total of the three lifts. It will be recognized subject to the following: (a) It is set during an IBSA recognized or sanctioned competition. (b) It is set by a lifter registered with an affiliated nation. (c) The record will only be valid for the bodyweight category of the lifter as determined at the official weigh-in. (d) Not only world records, but continental and national records broken under the same conditions as world records shall be recognized and registered ?? ?? ?? ?? 2 IBSA Powerlifting rulebook as from January 1st 2007