The SPF Rule Book
Southern Powerlifting Federation/World Bench and Powerlifting Association
Rules and Regulations, updated 6/21/11
General Rules
1. No Meet Director can Lift in there own meet that they are suppose to be either Directing or Co-Directing. No exceptions to this rule. Also the SPF does not allow Guest Lifting. Both of these only cause the federation trouble and are not permitted.
a) The SPF/WBPLA recognizes the following lifts as part of a powerlifting tournament (Powerlifting Meet or Meet), which must be performed in the designated sequence in all Meets conducted under the SPF/WBPLA rules
· Squat
· Bench Press
· Deadlift
·
The Sum of the best successes of three attempts at each lift will result in a Total.
Total= Squat + Bench Press + Deadlift.
· Depending upon the Meet, Lifters may also compete in a combination of these lifts, such as Bench Press only or Bench Press + Deadlift (Push/Pull) however a Total will not be determined unless a lifter participates in all 3 lifts (Full Powerlifting).
· Lifters are allowed 3 attempts at each individual lift.
o The lifters 1st attempts will be recorded at the time of weigh in.
o Lifters may change their 1st attempt at any time until the beginning of their respective lifting flight.
o No changes are allowed in the 1st attempted weight in any lift once a lifters respective flight has begun.
o Once a lifter has completed their attempt on the platform, they will have one minute to provide the table staff with the weight for their next attempt.
§ After an attempt is given and one minute has expired, lifters may not change their elected attempts.
o If the lifter does not provide a weight for their next attempt within the allotted time the following will apply:
If they don’t turn in a lift in the time allotted they will be passed over and there next attempted is scratched.
o A lifter may elect to change their elected 3rd deadlift attempt after the 1 minute allotted time to declare an attempt, but prior to the attempt being called on the platform if increasing the weight would lead to a higher total than other competitors in that flight.
· Lifters may register for competition in multiple events within the same meet (cross over registration) as long as the following criteria are met:
o Registration for multiple events is not allowed once the meet has begun.
o The lifter must pay all individual event fees and any additional fees as required prior to the beginning of the meet.
o The lifter must successfully complete the Meet, (complete one attempt in each individual lift in the Meet) to receive credit for each additional event entered.
b) All Competition under SPF/WBPLA rules will be conducted in pounds, but a Meet may also be conducted in kilograms.
c) The SPF/WBPLA is composed of 2 divisions of lifters based upon the powerlifting equipment that is chosen to be used by the lifter.
· Amateur, which is further subdivided depending upon the lifting equipment used. Name Brand Equipment allowed in the SPF is: Metal, Slingshot by Mark Bell, Inzer and Titan. No other gear is allowed unless it is inspected and approved piece by piece by the SPF President and or Board.
(1) RAW: Lifters may only use supportive equipment consisting of a belt, wrist, and knee wraps. Knee sleeves or knee patellar support wraps are allowed in place of knee wraps. Squat suits, briefs, bench shirts, and deadlift suits or any other supportive equipment are NOT allowed. Raw no wraps means belt only
(2) SINGLE-PLY: Lifters may wear supportive equipment consisting of 1 layer of cotton/denim or polyester material in addition to the equipment used in the RAW division. This includes squat suits, briefs, bench shirts, and deadlift suits. All equipment must be of one layer construction.
(3) MULTI-PLY: Lifters may wear supportive equipment consisting of no more than 3 layers of cotton/denim, polyester, or canvass material (or combination of these materials) in addition to the equipment used in the RAW division. This includes squat suits, briefs, bench shirts, and deadlift suits. No more than 3 layers are allowed per individual piece of equipment.
· Professional: There are no restrictions on the number of layers of material for the supportive equipment used.
d) Meets with Cash Payout/Monetary Awards
· Cash awards may be granted to lifters competing in certain Professional Division meets
· The cash award amount and specifics of award payout are to be determined by the Meet Director and announced prior to the beginning of the Meet.
e) The SPF/WBPLA, through its members recognizes the following Championships
e) Men’s Open Championships
e) Women’s Open Championships
e) Men’s Masters Championships
e) Women’s Masters Championships
e) Men’s Junior (Under 23 years of age) Championships
e) Women’s Junior (Under 23 years of age) Championships
e) Men’s Teenage Championships
e) Women’s Teenage Championships
e) Men’s Sub Master Championships
e) Women’s Sub Master Championships
e) Grand Masters (50 years old and older)
e) Men’s Police and Fire Dept. Championships
e) Women’s Police and Fire Dept. Championships
f) The SPF/WBPLA recognizes and registers records (in pounds) for the Squat, Bench Press, and Deadlift in the age and bodyweight categories as follows
(1) Age categories (for both men and women)
(1) Pre Teens 12 and under
(1) Teenage from 13 years to and including 15 years of age
(1) Teenage from 16 years to and including 17 years of age
(1) Teenage from 18 years to and including 19 years of age
(1) Junior from 20 years to and including 23 years of age
Open from 24 years of and including 32 years of age
Sub Master from 33 years to and including 39 years of age
Master from 40 years to and including 44 years of age (Master I)
Master from 45 years to and including 49 years of age (Master II)
Master from 50 years to and including 54 years of age (Master III)
Master from 55 years to and including 59 years of age (Master IV)
Master from 60 years to and including 64 years of age (Master V)
Master from 65 years to and including 69 years of age (Master VI)
Master from 70 years to and including 74 years of age (Master VII)
Master from 75 years to and including 79 years of age (Master VIII)
Grand Master from 80 years of age and up
(2) Bodyweight Classes
(2)*A lifter must lift in the age and weight group in which he or she is currently in until they reach the stated upper limit of that category.
(2)
(2)* These weight class limits are to be followed precisely with no allowed variance for any reason. If someone misses the weight of one class they must move to the next higher weight class.
Thus, the weight class limits are as follows:
44 kg — 97.0 pounds
48 kg — 105.75 pounds
52 kg — 114.5 pounds
56 kg — 123.25 pounds
60 kg — 132.25 pounds
67.5 kg — 148.75 pounds
75 kg — 165.25 pounds
82.5 kg — 181.75 pounds
90 kg — 198.25 pounds
100 kg — 220.25 pounds
110 kg — 242.5 pounds
118kg. — 259.5 pounnds
125 kg — 275.5 pounds
140 kg — 308.5 pounds
WOMEN
44 kg — 97.0 pounds
48 kg — 105.75 pounds
52 kg — 114.5 pounds
56 kg — 123.25 pounds
60 kg — 132.25 pounds
67.5 kg — 148.75 pounds
75 kg — 165.25 pounds
82.5 kg — 181.75 pounds
90 kg — 198.25 pounds
100 kg — 220.25 pounds
110 kg — 242.5 pounds +
g) EARLY WEIGH IN AND DAY OF THE MEET WEIGH IN
· It is the discretion of the Meet Director if there will be a 24 hr weigh in. This will be announced with the other information of the Meet, prior to the week of the Meet.
· Early weigh in, if allowed, may also only be done in the 12 hours immediately prior to the meet, or not until the day of the meet, depending on the decision of the Meet Director.
· Early weigh in cannot be done more than 24 hours prior to the start of the meet.
· Day of meet weigh in ends 1 hour prior to the beginning of the meet
h) For any Meet sanctioned or put on by the SPF/ WBPLA all competitors must have a SPF/WBPLA membership card that is current before they will be allowed to compete.
i) If a lifter doesn’t have a current card, they will be allowed to purchase one at the time of the weigh in.
ii) All membership cards along with a picture ID must be presented at the time of the weigh in.
i) Teams and Team Scoring
i) A team is defined as a minimum of five (5) but no more than eleven (11) lifters competing as a group at an individual powerlifting meet.
ii) Point scoring in the SPF / WBPLA for Teams is based on the placing of individual lifters in their respective division/weight class.
(1) Point scoring is tallied as follows:
(a) 3 points for all 1st place
(b) 2 points for all 2nd place
(c) 1 point for all 3rd place
(c)
(c)***the SPF Official in Charge can use another point system as long as it is explained to the lifters prior to the start of the meet.
(2) No more than 2 people from the same team shall be eligible for point scoring in a particular body weight category
(3) In the event of a tie in the points of teams, the team having the largest number of first places within the 11 point scoring competitors will be ranked first. In the case of a tie between Team having the same number of first places, the one having the most second places will be ranked first, and so on.
iii) At competitions where “Best Lifter Awards” are presented, placing will be established by the Swartz Formula. Only winners will be eligible towards the “Best Lifter” designation.
· At any SPF/WBPLA meet, excessive “psyching up” techniques (loud swearing, head butting, screaming, etc) may be limited at the Judge’s and Meet Official’s discretion.
General Tournament Rules
1) Lifters are allowed three attempts per individual event.
2) Only the Lifter, Spotters/Loaders and Judges are allowed on the platform during the execution of the lift.
3) After an attempt, a lifter may choose to attempt the same weight, attempt a heavier weight, or pass on their next attempt. A lifter may never request a lighter weight than that of the first attempt.
3)
4) Token lifts are permitted.
4)
5) Lifting order is broken into flights. Flights begin with the lightest attempts and end with the heaviest. Final lifting order is up to the discretion of the meet director.
5)
6) A majority decision by three judges determines if the lift is “GOOD” or “BAD/no lift”.
7) It is encouraged that lifters inquire as to why an attempt was deemed “BAD/no lift”.
8) It is forbidden for a lifter or individuals accompanying a lifter to argue with or insult a judge.
9) The heaviest successful attempt will count toward the Meet total.
10) If a competitor cannot fully extend their arm or has any other disability that may affect their performance, they must notify the judges before the beginning of the meet so that a ruling over the disability can be made.
11) A fourth attempt may be allowed to break National Records, but successful fourth attempts will not count toward the meet results or placing. A successful 3rd attempt must be completed in order for a lifter to make a 4th attempt.
12) If two lifters in the same class tie, the lighter lifter automatically wins the higher placing.
13) Every effort must be made by spotters to not block the view of the judges. If a coach or personal spotter blocks the view of a judge, the judge must rule the lift as a “BAD/no lift” attempt because they were unable to see the lift. If there is any doubt to positioning, the judges should be questioned prior to the beginning of the lift.
14) Baggy clothes are not permitted at any SPF meet. This includes oversized singlets used to obscure a lifter raising their posterior during bench press attempts. All lifters must wear appropriate lifting attire (i.e. squat or deadlift suit) or a singlet during all events. Lifters will not be allowed to compete without appropriate attire.
15) The Meet Director, Vice President or President can overturn the judge’s majority decision of a “BAD/no lift” attempt if they feel the call was blown and goes against the rules and ideals of the federation.
16) The Meet Director does have the right to turn down a lift that the judges have ruled as “GOOD” if the Meet Director, Vice President or President believes that an attempt credited as “GOOD” goes against the rules and ideals of the federation, if a lifter displays unnecessary abuse of equipment, insults the judges, staff, or audience, or puts other participants at an unnecessary risk.
Also the Vice President and President of the Federation reserves the right in rare occasions such as World Record attempts and or ALL TIME RECORD attempts to use all tools at their deposal to decide if a lift is to be overturned, even after a meet is over, regardless of time passed by, if they feel it goes against the rules and ideals of the federation. The Vice President and President will have to agree on the decision before this rule can be applied, and it will be known in the SPF as the Good Faith Act. The Rule WILL NOT be used for any other reason or time and it is solely up to the Vice President and President as to when it will be used. At this time the two of them can use whatever tools they have or desire to make their decisions and do not have to disclose what tools they did or did not use to make their decisions.
17) The Meet Director or a majority vote between the Judges may eject a lifter and anyone associated with that lifter from the meet or deny attempts based on the individuals actions or statements.
18) The use of profanity or alcohol at an SPF/WBPLA meet event is grounds for immediate ejection and removal from the meet site.
19) All scales used for weighing in contestants and/or weights for any SPF Meet must be professional grade digital or balance beam scales. Specific brands or designs of scales used must be approved by SPF Officials prior to use. All scales should be calibrated and certified prior to use in any SPF competition. All weight plates to be used in any SPF competition are to have weights verified on official competition scales. The weight classes stated within the rule book are to be strictly enforced. At no time will variance in weight class be allowed.
20) Lifters must abide by restrictions of equipment based on their individual competition division (Amateur or Professional). Only one Bench Shirt or Squat/Deadlift Suit can be worn at a time in both amateur and professional level competition.
21) Equipment may be checked by the Judges before or after a lift at any time during the competition. If a lifter’s equipment does not comply with SPF/WBPLA rules the lifter will not be allowed to compete until equipment complying with rules is worn. If a lifter is found to be wearing equipment that does not comply with SPF/WBPLA rules during a meet, the judges can declare any successful lift “BAD/No Lift” due to equipment violations.
22) Lifters are expected to respect each other and the equipment used. In other words, do not harm or destroy any thing that is not your own property. Lifters or individuals associated with lifters found to have intentionally damaged equipment including the venue for the meet will be held fully responsible and accountable for any damage. This includes monetary reimbursement to the owners for damages that they may have caused.
23) The Meet Director has the right to deny any applicant to lift in any SPF/WBPLA meet that they are hosting if they have any reason to believe that the applicant poses a risk to themselves or any individual around them.
24) The Meet Director has the right to deny entry into the place of venue where the SPF/WBPLA meet is being held to any person, (member of the SPF/WBPLA or spectator) if there is thought that individual will cause unnecessary disruption to the meet or for any reason that the Meet Director sees fit based upon the situation at hand. The Meet Director may request any lifter or individuals accompanying a lifter (including handlers, coaches, photographers, personal spotters, etc) or members of the audience to leave at any time.
25) All lifters in all Amateur events are required to wear some type of appropriate shin covering (socks, shin guard, etc) for the deadlift. This rule will take effect 01/01/2011. This rule does not apply to any Pro Events, however Professional lifters do have the option of wearing shin protection if so desired.
26) It is the discretion of the Meet Director and Judges if the “One Minute Rule” will be enforced at individual meets. If this rule is to be enforced, lifters will be informed at the rules briefing prior to the beginning of the meet.
· Enforcement of this rule shall consist of the lifters having one minute from the time that the bar is loaded for a given lift, signaled by the head judge stating “BAR READY” or “BAR IS LOADED”, to take position on the platform and begin their attempt.
· Time can be called by the announcer at 30, 15, and 5 seconds to allow the lifters to know how much time is remaining from the allotted one minute.
· If possible based on Meet venue, a visual countdown timer will be used so that the Lifter can see the time remaining.
· If the lifter has not taken position on the platform and began their attempt within the one minute time allotted, the head judge will signal “TIME HAS EXPIRED” when 0 seconds remain and the lift will be recorded as “NO LIFT. Once next attempt is given to score keepers it can not be changed by anyone period.Only 3rd deadlift can be changed once.
Personal Attire (Lifting Costume and Personal Equipment)
A. Lifting (Squat and Deadlift) Suit and Singlet
a) The lifting suit must be an individual article of fabric. Lifters may only wear one suit at a time. Multiple suits worn at the same time are not allowed.
b) The construction must be as a singular component, with the number of layers allowed determined by the division the lifter is competing in.
· Amateur RAW: a single layer of cotton or lycra cloth fabric designed to not assist the lifter in any way and of a design commonly recognized as that of a “wrestling” or weight lifting singlet may be worn
· Amateur Single Ply: a suit composed of a single layer of cotton/denim or polyester material may be worn
· Amateur Multiply: a suit composed of up to 2 layers of canvas, cotton/denim, or polyester material may be worn
· Professional: a suit composed of any number (unlimited) of layers of canvas, cotton/denim, or polyester material may be worn.
c) The straps must be worn over the shoulders at all times while lifting in a competition.
d) The suit may be of any color or composed of multiple colors.
e) The length of the leg must not extend beyond mid-thigh (mid point between crotch and top of knee cap).
f) Competitors (male or female) may not wear leotards with sleeves or high cut leg lines.
B. Bench Press Shirt
a) The Bench Press Shirt must be an individual article of fabric. Lifters may only wear one Bench Press Shirt at a time. Multiple Bench Press Shirts worn at the same time are not allowed.
b) The construction must be as a singular component with the number of layers allowed determined by the division the lifter is competing in.
· Amateur RAW: bench press shirts are not allowed
· Amateur Single Ply: a bench press shirt composed of a single (1) layer of cotton/denim or polyester material may be worn
· Amateur Multiply: a bench press shirt composed of up to two (3) layers of canvas, cotton/denim, or polyester material may be worn
· Professional: a bench press shirt composed of any number (unlimited) of layers of canvas, cotton/denim, or polyester material may be worn
c) Bench press shirts with an open or partially open back are allowed in all divisions which allow a bench press shirt to be used.
d) The sleeve must not extend beyond the point of the elbow at any point during execution of the lift.
e) A “scooped” collar is allowed in all divisions that allow a bench press shirt
C. Undershirt
a) One undershirt (of a design consistent with what is commonly called a T-shirt) with or without sleeves,must be worn under the lifting suit during the squat.
b) It must be an individual article of cloth fabric that must be a singular component. The shirt’s construction must be of a singular component.
c) The thickness or shape of the undershirt shall not be designed to increase, enlarge, or enhance the Lifter’s body’s natural musculature or shape.
d) Sleeves must be short and remain above the elbow when worn. Sleeveless undershirts are allowed.
e) It may be of any color or colors, but shall not portray indecency or be offensive to the spirit of the competition.
f) An undershirt must be worn when competing in the bench press if a lifter is not wearing a Bench Press Shirt.
g) An undershirt may be worn under an open backed Bench Press Shirt for personal hygiene.
D. Briefs
a) Lifting briefs of any design may be worn in all equipped divisions, provided that the length of the legs does not exceed mid thigh, and that the waist does not extend beyond approximately mid torso.
b) Briefs of any design with shoulder straps are not allowed. Briefs with shoulder straps of any design will be considered a “Suit”.
c) Multiple pairs of briefs worn at the same time are not allowed. The Lifter may only wear a single pair of briefs at any given time.
d) The briefs must be an individual article of cloth fabric consisting of the same type of material throughout.
e) The construction must be that of a singular component, with the number of layers allowed determined by the specific division the lifter is competing in
· Amateur- RAW: briefs are not allowed
· Amateur- Single Ply: only briefs made from a single (1) layer of cotton/denim or polyester material is allowed
· Amateur-Multiply: briefs composed of up to two (2) layers of cotton/denim or polyester material may be worn
· Professional: There are no limitations on the number of layers of cotton/denim, polyester, or canvass material used.
f) Athletic supporters are permitted under briefs.
E. Footwear
a) Socks and shoes of some form must be worn when performing all lifts. Only one pair of socks and one pair of shoes may be worn at any given time.
Mandatory as of 1/1/11
Deadlift: Socks must come over the Calves, (Tube Sucks also called Deadlift socks or shin guards can be worn to protect the legs from the bar and to keep blood from the bar.
b) Socks may not extend over the knee nor be positioned on the leg so as to touch any knee wrap or knee cap supporter (Knee sleeve).
c) Shoes must be of solid construction without holes or significant rips that may affect a lifters footing.
d) Shoes with metal cleats or spikes are not permitted
e) The use of special designed slip on shoes for the deadlift (deadlift slippers) is permitted in all divisions.
f) The use of specially designed shoes with a raised heel for the squat (squat shoes) is permitted in all divisions.
F. Special Considerations
a) Women may wear additional protective briefs or panties, including the use of feminine hygiene products.
b) Women may wear a brassiere provided it contains no special support that may aid in the performance of a lift.
c) Tape or plastic shin guards may be utilized to prevent bleeding during the deadlift. If used, these must not extend to a point higher than the lower border of the patella and may not extend not lower than the upper border of the ankle joint
d) An SPF/WBPLA Lifter may request special privileges for attire provided there is a legitimate reason to why the lifter needs to wear this attire.
· This must be discussed with all 3 judges before the meet starts.
· Such special privilege attire can not benefit in the lift in any way and can not obstruct the judge’s view in any way or the lift will automatically be refused. Examples of special privilege attire include ankle supports or prosthetic devices.
G. Belt
a) A competitor may wear a lifting belt in all divisions if desired.
b) If a lifting belt is worn, it shall only be worn on the outside of the lifting suit.
c) The lifter’s name, the name of the lifter’s nation, state, or club may appear on the outside of the belt.
· Writing that can be interpreted as profanity or obscene in any way is not allowed on a lifters belt
d) A one or two prong buckle as well as the “lever action” fastening device may be used.
e) Acceptable Materials and Construction:
· The main body of the belt shall be made of either leather or in the case of specialized bench press and deadlift belts, be made of cloth or nylon
1. Cloth belts cannot have any metal materials in the belt except those as noted below.
2. Leather belts shall be composed of one or more laminations which may be glued and/or stitched together
· The belt shall not have any additional padding, bracing, or supports of any material either on the surface or concealed within the laminations of the belt.
· A metal buckle, studs, and stitching are the only metal components permitted on a belt. The buckle shall be attached at one end of the belt by means of studs and/or stitching.
· The belt shall not have any inflatable components in any form.
· A leather, cloth, vinyl, or nylon tongue loop shall be attached close to the buckle by means of metal studs and/or stitching.
f) Dimensions:
· The width of the belt may not exceed 4 in (10.2 cm)
· The thickness of belt should be a maximum of 0.5 in. (13mm) along the main length.
H. Plasters
a) Two layers of plasters, band aids , or tape may be worn on the thumbs, but no where else on the body without official permission of the referees or appointed SPF/WBPLA Meet Officials
b) No plasters, band aids, or tape may be utilized as a strap to help the lifters hold the bar.
c) With the permission and supervision of the referees, the appointed SPF Meet Officials, the official meet doctor, or other assigned medical personnel, the lifter may apply spot plasters, bandages, tape or band aids to muscle injuries on the body.
· Strip plasters, tape, or band aids may be applied to injuries on the inside of the hand, but in no circumstances must these applications extend across the entire back of the hand without due medical cause and permission from Meet Officials.
I. Wraps
a) Wraps shall be composed of an elastic weave primarily of polyester, cotton, or medical crepe.
b) Wraps may be used as follows:
· Wrists
· Wraps not exceeding 36 inches (1meter) in length and 3.2 inches. (8 centimeters) in width may be worn.
· Alternatively, elasticized wrist bands not exceeding 4 inches. (10 centimeters) in width may be worn.
· A combination of the wrist wrap and elasticized wrist band is not permitted.
· If wrist bands are of the wrap-around style, they may have a thumb loop and Velcro patch for securing them, however the thumb loop is not to be attached during lift.
· A wrist wrap shall not exceed beyond 3.9 inches (10centimeters) above the wrist towards the elbow and 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) below the center of the wrist joint towards the palm. Wrist wraps may not exceed a total length of 6 inches. (15 centimeters) along the wrist and forearm.
· Knees
· Wraps not exceeding 97.5 inches (3 meters) in length and 3.2 inches (8 centimeters) in width may be worn
· A knee wrap shall not extend beyond 6 inches (15 centimeters) above and 6 inches (15 centimeters) below the center of the knee joint. Knee wraps may not exceed a total of 12 inches (30centimeters) in both directions above and below the knee.
· Knee sleeves (elasticized knee supports) not exceeding 8 inches (20 centimeters) in length may be worn.
· A combination of a knee wrap and a knee sleeve is not permitted.
· Knee wraps shall not touch the socks or the lifting suit.
· Elbows
· Wraps may only be worn during the Squat and Deadlift.
· Elbow wraps are not allowed during the Bench Press.
· The wraps may cover the general elbow area but cannot extend to the wrist or to the shoulder.
· The wraps may be composed of an elastic weave primarily of polyester, cotton, or medical crepe or they may be supportive sleeves of rubberized material. The wrap must be composed of a single unit that is no longer than 3 feet (91.4 centimeters) in length.
J. Other General Attire Information
a) A singlet (wrestling suit) must be worn in all 3 events if the lifter is not wearing a Squat suit or a Deadlift suit. This includes lifters lifting in the Bench Only competition.
· Blue jeans, baggy pants, hoodies or shorts will not be allowed
b) The use of oil, grease or other lubricants and liquids on the body, costume or personal equipment to aid in the execution of a lift is not permitted.
· This does not include the advanced therapeutic use of liniments, or rubs or water. However, such items must not be in evidence during platform attempts.
c) Only powder may be applied to the body, costume, or personal equipment. Powder includes chalk, talc, and magnesium carbonate.
d) Spray adhesives may be used to secure attire, but may only on be used on the lifter, not on any platform equipment.
e) Spray adhesives may NOT be applied to the lifters hands. The discovery of the use of spray adhesives on the hands will result in automatic ejection from the meet.
f) Nothing may be purposely applied to the platform, bench, weights or bars.
g) All articles of lifter’s costumes and personal equipment shall be clean and generally neat and presentable. At the discretion of the Judges or other Meet Officials, a lifter will not continue in the competition if this provision is not met.
Equipment and Specifications
1) Platform
a. All lifts shall be carried out on a platform not less than 6ft long x 8ft wide (1.82 meters x 2.44 meters) and secure enough to insure the safety of the lifter, spotters, and loaders. The surface of the platform must be firm, nonslip, and level with no discernible seams in the vicinity of the general lifting area. Rubber mats or similar sheeting materials are permitted.
b. No one is allowed on the platform during performance of a lift except the lifter, the designated spotters for each lift, a handoff person for the bench press, the three Judges on duty, and other Meet Officials as designated if the need arises.
c. Any cleaning, mopping, brushing, or adjusting of the platform, or equipment will be handled solely by meet personnel including the Judges, Meet Officials, or designated spotters or loaders.
2. Bars and Discs
a. For all powerlifting competitions under the rules of the SPF/WBPLA, only “Olympic” 2 inch (50.8 mm) diameter hole disc barbells are permitted. Only bars and discs that meet all specifications may be used for all lifts throughout the entire competition. The use of bars or discs that do not conform to SPF specifications will invalidate any records that may have been accomplished.
b. Different bars suited to particular lifts may be utilized providing that they conform to the SPF/WBPLA specifications.
a. Bar specifications are as follows:
i. The bar shall be straight, well knurled, and grooved and shall conform to the following dimensions:
1. Specialized Squat Bar
a. Total length shall not exceed 102.5 inches (2.41 meters)
b. The length between the inside collar is not to exceed 4.76 feet (1.45 meters) or be less than 4.73 feet (1.44 meters)
c. The diameter of the bar is not to exceed 1.38 inches (35 millimeters)
d. The weight of the bar and collars should not exceed 75.1 pounds (34.1 kilograms)
e. The diameter of the sleeve is to be between 1.95 inches (49.5 millimeters) and 2.05 inches. (52 millimeters).
2. Bench Press Bar
a. Total length shall not exceed 87 inches. (2.2 meters).
b. The distance between the inside collar is not to exceed 4.33 feet (1.32 meters) or be less than 4.30 feet (1.31 meters)
c. The diameter of the bar is not to exceed 1.14 inches (29 millimeters)
d. The weight of the bar and collars should not exceed 55.1 lbs (25 kilograms).
e. The diameter of the sleeve is to be between 1.95 inches (49.5 millimeters) and 2.05 inches. (52milimeters).
f. The bar used for the bench press shall have a machined circumferential marking or the bar shall be taped so as to measure 31.88 inches. (81 centimeters) between machining or tape across the center point of the bar so that there is an equal distance of 15.9 in (40.5 cm) on either side of the center point of the bar
3. Specialized Deadlift Bar
a. Total length shall not exceed 90.5 inches. (2.3 meters).
b. The distance between the inside collar is not to exceed 4.71 feet (1.44 meters) or be less than 4.69 feet (1.43 meters).
c. The diameter of the bar is not to exceed 1.06 inches (27 millimeters).
d. The weight of the bar and collars should not exceed 55.1 lbs (25 kilograms).
e. The diameter of the sleeve is to be between 1.95 inches (49.5 millimeters) and 2.05 inches. (52 millimeters).
b. Discs shall conform as follows:
i. All discs used in competition must weigh within 0.25% of their correct face value.
ii. The hole size in the middle of the disc shall be such that the disc fits on the bar without excessive play.
iii. Discs must be of the following range: 2.5 lb., 5 lb., 10 lb., 25 lb., 35 lb., 45 lb., and 100 lb. For record setting purposes plates of 1 lb. shall also be available, if possible.
3. The SPF uses a Monolift squat rack for all powerlifting meets.
1. The Monolift squat rack used shall conform to the following:
a. The Monolift squat rack shall be of a sturdy metal construction and design so as to provide maximum stability.
b. The base of the Monolift squat rack shall be of such a design so as to not impede the lifters or the loaders/spotters.
c. The Monolift squat rack shall be of a one-piece construction and a designed to hold the bar in a horizontal position.
d. The design of the Monolift squat rack shall allow adjustments to accommodate all lifters.
e. The design of the Monolift squat rack shall allow incremental height adjustments, not exceeding 2 inches (5 cm) per increment
f. All Monolift squat racks shall have a means of the loaded bar being secured at the required height by means of a solid pin for Lifter safety.
2. Cloth safety straps or metal chain may be used with the Monolift squat rack at the discretion of the Judges and the Meet Director.
3. Lifters are not required to use the Monolift but may choose to walk the weights out.
a. The lifter is expected to inform the judges and spotters/loaders that they intend to walk the weights out of the Monolift squat rack prior to assuming the position to begin lifting.
b. Lifters choosing to not use the Monolift squat rack acknowledge and accept the risk of personal injury as a result of walking the weights out of the Monolift squat rack.
c. Lifters choosing to not use the Monolift also acknowledge that it may not be possible to use safety straps or chain for protection against injury in the event of a missed attempt.
4. The bench used for the Bench Press shall be of sturdy construction for maximum stability and conform to the following dimensions:
a. The bench shall be flat and level and longer than 49 inches (1.25 meters)
b. The padded surface of the bench shall not be narrower than 11.2 inches (32 centimeters) and not wider than 14.5 inches.
c. The height of the padded surfaces measured from the floor to the top of the pad without the pad being depressed or compacted shall be no less than 15.5 inches (4 centimeters) and no more than 18.5 inches (45 centimeters)
d. The uprights of the bench shall be constructed to allow adjustment from a minimum of 32.3 inches (82 cm) to a maximum of 39.5 inches (100 cm) from the floor to the bar rest position.
e. The minimum width between the inside of the bar rests shall be 43.2 inches (10.10 meters).
Lights: A system of lights shall be provided whereby the referees can make known their decisions. Each referee will control a white and a red light, representing a “GOOD Lift” or “BAD/NO LIFT” respectively. The lights must be wired in such a way that they light up together and not separately when activated by the three referees. It is preferable that the lights be arranged horizontally corresponding with the positions of the three Judges.
Rules for the Squat
1. A legal squat is performed when the top of the upper thigh at the hip (the “crease” of the hip) passes below the height of the knee.
2. There will be no SQUAT COMMAND from the Head Judge, also there will be no “Up” call from the Head Judge when the lifter is in the bottom of the Squat. No pause at the bottom of the lift is necessary. When the proper weight is loaded, the Lifter will face the front of the platform towards the Head Referee. The Lifter will then take the weight onto their back or shoulders and prepare their proper stance. Proper stance is with the knees locked and the head up. The lifter may not hold the inside sleeves or discs at any time during the performance of the lift. However, the edge of the hands gripping the bar may be in contact with the inner surface of the inside collar. When ready, the Lifter will begin to Squat without any Squat Command from the Head Judge.
3. Any downward motion made by the Lifter will Constitute the Start of the Lift and at the time there will not be any Re-Racks granted to the lifter.
4. If the Lifter is having trouble coming out of the rack and getting set up, the spotters can help stabilize the weight. Spotters must not touch the bar or lifter once the Lifter Has Started the Lift. If the Lifter needs to he can call for a Re-Rack in order to get the bar set. A Lifter can have as many as two Re-Racks after two Re-Racks the lift becomes void/No Lift.
5. The squatter should descent until they break parallel as indicated in rule #1 and then return immediately to the beginning stance, standing completely erect with the knees locked. There should be no bend to the knees.
6. Once the squat is completed the lifter must wait for the Head Judge to give the “Rack” command before returning the bar to the rack.
7. After the head judge gives the “Rack” command the spotters may help the lifter in returning the weight to the rack.
8. During the squat, the lifters feet must remain stationary without moving and the bar must move up in one continual motion. Slowing of the bar is allowed, but any descent of the bar will result in an automatic determination of the lift as “BAD/NO LIFT”.
Causes for Disqualification of a Squat
1. Failure to start the Lift from and Erect and Stable (Lifter in Control of the weight) Position.
2. Double bouncing or more than one recovery attempt at the bottom of the lift.
3. Failure to assume an upright position with knees locked at the commencement and completion of the lift.
4. Movement of the feet laterally, backward or forward that would constitute a step any time during the attempt. This includes resetting of the feet after the “SQUAT” has been started.
5. Failure to squat to sufficient depth so as to bend the knees and lower the body until the surface of the leg at the hip crease is lower than the top of the knee.
6. Contact with the bar by the spotters after the “SQUAT” has been began but prior to the Head Referee telling the spotters to take the bar.
7. Contact of elbows or upper arms with the legs during any portion of the lift.
8. Failure to make a bona fide attempt to return the bar to the racks after the“RACK” command has been given by the head judge.
10. Any intentional dropping or dumping of the bar.
11. Intentional Dropping/Dumping of the Bar and intentional Running out from under the
Bar will result in the Lifter being terminated from the contest and not ever being allowed
to Squat in another SPF event.
Rules for the Bench Press
1. All lifters must wear a wrestling singlet during the bench press. Long or baggy pants of any type are not allowed. Wrestling singlets may not be excessively large, allowing a bunching of material under the lifters posterior during the lift.
2. There is no restriction to the position of a lifters head during the completion of the bench press. A lifter may complete the lift with a head up or head down position.
3. A lifter may bench with the feet in a tip toe or flat footed position. The foot can not lose contact with the floor; however the elevated portion of the foot can move or twist, but not move so much as to step. Once the “PRESS” command is given, the foot can not change from a heel down to a heel up position, or vice verse from a heel up to a heel down position. At no time shall any part of the foot come in contact with any part of the bench during completion of the lift.
4. The lifters buttocks must remain in contact with the bench at all times during completion of the lift.
5. A “start” command is not given in the SPF/WBPLA. A lifter may immediately begin the descent of the bar upon receiving the handout or after taking the weight out of the rack.
6. The bar must pause on the chest and the lifter must wait for the Head Judge to give the “PRESS” command before beginning moving the bar upward towards the LOCKED OUT position.
7. Once lifter has received the “PRESS” command, the bar can only move upward. A lifter may not allow the bar to sink any deeper into the chest prior to beginning the bars upward motion after receiving the “PRESS” command.
8. Once the bar has started upward motion, it may pause, but if it moves downward in any way the lift will be called “BAD/NO LIFT” and the Head Judge will instruct the spotters to take the bar.
9. The bar can travel slightly uneven on the way up (not excessively uneven) but both sides must be locked out at the top of the lift at the same time.
10. The lifter must remain in the LOCKED OUT position at the top of the lift until the Head Judge gives the “RACK” command.
11. If any spotter touches the bar for any reason during the lift before the Head Judge gives “RACK” command the lift will be determined “NO LIFT”.
12. Once the lifter has received the “RACK” command, the Spotters may help the lifter get the bar back into the rack.
13. A lifter’s HAND OUT person, may remain on the bench step to act as an additional spotter in the interest of the safety of the lifter, but may be instructed to step back or to the side to allow the Head Judge to see the lifter. If there is any doubt to positioning of the HAND OUT person, the Head Judge should be questioned prior to the lifter taking position to begin the lift.
14. NO ONE is allowed on the platform or in the immediate lifting area, other than Judges, Spotters, Hand Out person, Loaders, Meet Officials, and the Lifter after the lifter takes position to begin the lift.
Causes for Disqualification of a Bench Press
1. Failure to observe the Head Referee’s signals at the commencement or completion of the lift.
2. Any lateral movement of the hands on the bar between the Head Referee’s “Press” and “Rack” signals
3. Excessive movement or change of contact of the feet during completion of the lift.
4. Failure to maintain the buttocks in contact with the bench at any point during the commencement of the lift.
5. Bouncing the bar off the chest.
6. Allowing the bar to sink into the chest after receiving the Head Referee’s signal to “PRESS”
7. Pronounced uneven extension of the arms during or at the completion of the lift.
8. Any downward motion of the bar during the completion of the lift after receiving the “PRESS” command from the Head Referee.
9. Contact with the bar by the spotters between the Head Referee’s “Press” and “Rack” commands.
10. Any contact of the lifter’s shoes with the bench or its supports at any time during completion of the lift.
11. Deliberate contact between the bar and the bar rest uprights during the lift to assist with the completion of the lift
Rules for the Deadlift
1. The bar must move upwards in one continuous motion.
2. Gloves or lifting straps may not be worn. Wrist wraps may be worn, but they may not touch the bar during the lift.
3. A hook grip or “hooking” is permitted during the deadlift. Hooking is covering the last joint of the thumb with the other fingers of the same hand while gripping the bar.
4. “Hitching” or jerking the bar up the thighs is not allowed.
5. The lifter’s feet must remain stationary throughout the lift.
6. The intentional release of the bar from above the knees may be interpreted as equipment abuse and could result in immediate ejection from the meet
7. The Lifter may begin the lift after assuming their position facing the front of the platform with the bar on the platform in front of them upon hearing the “BAR READY” command and the Head Judge giving the “LIFT” signal by raising their hand.
8. Any raising of the bar or any deliberate attempt to do so will count as an attempt.
9. Judges look for the lifter to be standing completely erect, shoulders back, chest out, and knees locked but not hyper-extended at completion of the lift.
10. The lifter may not lower the weight at the completion of the lift until the Head Judge gives the “DOWN” command by lowering their hand.
11. The bar must remain in the lifters control during the descent. Any dropping or throwing the bar down will result in a “BAD/NO LIFT” call.
Causes of Disqualification of a Deadlift
1. Any downward motion of the bar before it reaches the final position.
2. Failure to stand fully erect with the knees locked at the completion of the lift.
3. “Hitching” or “Supporting” the bar by allowing it to rest on the thighs during the performance of the lift. ‘Supporting’ is defined as a body position adopted by the lifter that could not be maintained without the counterbalance of the weight being lifted.
4. Movement of the feet laterally, backward or forward that would constitute a step at any point during completion of the lift.
5. Lowering the bar before receiving the Head Referee’s “DOWN” signal.
6. “Dropping” the bar. “Dropping” is defined as allowing the bar to return to the platform without maintaining contact and control of the bar with both hands