Global Powerlifting Committee Official Rules
edition october 2006
01. GENERAL RULES
A. SUBSCRIPTION AND FEES
- Yearly contribution: 200 €, each country.
- World and Continental contribution fees are
separated.
. For Continental fees, take contact with the Continental treasurer.
- Before a country can be connected to a
Continental branch,
it will be firstly satisfy to the World
contribution fee.
. Extra concerning to this rules, see “07. World and Continental records”.
- Small country’s which have on their national
contest less than 11 participants; the contribution
fee will be reduced to 100
Euro.
- Any National federation, who has not paid the
necessary contribution fee, shall automatically
be suspended from memberships of
the GPC until such time as the required fee is paid in full.
- If a contribution fee is not paid by the time
of the Championship, the lifters of the country in
question shall not be allowed
to participate in the contest.
- All nations that do not pay the GPC
membership contribution in January shall be fined an
additional amount of 10 €
for each month in arrears.
B. GENERAL CONTEST RULES
- The Annual General Meeting (AGM) should always be held the evening
before the competition starts.
All countries will be invited before the AGM;
their points can be part of the agenda. The items for discussion must be sent to
the secretary in time.
- The Global Power lifting Committee (GPC)
recognizes the following lifts, which must be performed in the designated
sequence in all applications conducted under GPC rules:
- Squat / Bench Press / Dead Lift / Total
The GPC, through its members and member Federations,
recognizes the following
World and Continental Championships:
1. Men & Women Open World & Continental Championships.
2. Men & Women Masters World & Continental Championships.
3. Men & Women Junior World & Continental Championships.
4. Men & Women Teenage World & Continental Championships.
- The GPC also recognizes National and
International competitions of its member Federations.
- During the GPC formative years each nation will
be allowed any number of competitors spread throughout the body weight
categories. Member Federations may impose qualifying standards for their
individual team selection.
- The competition recordings must happen with the approval of the GPC
responsable of the country.
- A participant must take part under the name of
the country, mentioned on his passport,
Exceptions:
1. Athletes who have a dual nationality or a valid residence in a certain
country.
2. Athletes of a certain country, where no GPC federation or responsible is
operative.
- Double registrations will not allow (e.g. open
and master).
- Whenever possible for all International
Championships and competitions all intended competitors should be declared to
the GPC General Secretary and the Championships Organizing Committee at least 21
days before the date of that particular competition.
- For World and International Championships,
lifters entered in the event must have current federation membership cards
secured prior to event, and supply photocopy of card with entry, as well as
present card at weigh-ins.
- All competitions under GPC rules must be
conducted in kilograms.
- The GPC additionally recognizes and registers
World / Continental records (in kilograms) for the same lifts within the age and
body weight categories.
- At World / Continental Championships, each nation
will have representation, they must bring there National flag, (Size 3’x 5’ or
90 x 150cm).
- At all competitions where “Best Lifter Awards”
are presented, places will be calculated with the “Reshel” Formula. Only winners
will be eligible towards Best Lifter.
- The highest total of the best successes of each
lift will result in a Total. Winner of the competition will be determined by
highest Total, (no fourth attempts may be included in the total).
- If two lifters register the same body weight at
the weigh-in and eventually achieve the same total at the end of the
competition, they will be re-weighed and the lighter person will take precedence
over the heavier person. However, if they still weigh the same after
re-weighing, they will share the placing, and each receives any award - that is
being presented. In such circumstances, should two lifters be in first place,
the next lifter shall be placed third and so forth.
- Point scoring for all World Championships shall
be 12, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1 for the first 10 places in any body weight
category. Point scoring for all other international competitions will be
optional and at the discretion of the appointed GPC Contest Officials and
Championships Organizing Committee.
- In World Championships only six competitors from
each nation shall score points towards the national team total. These six
competitors will be selected after the competition is completed and shall be the
six (6) best scores by the “Reshel” formula of the competitors from a particular
nation. A maximum of three competitors from the same national shall be eligible
for point scoring in a particular body weight category. Each nation may have
three lifters per body weight category.
- In the case of a tie in the points of
national teams, the team having the largest number of first places within the
six point scoring competitors 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 ranked first, and so on through the ten places.
- In the men Masters division 10 lifters will be
selected towards the points scoring, for selection of best men Masters national
team, especially at the GPC World Championship.
C. AGE
CATEGORIES
Open (Senior)
From 24 years to and including 39 years of age
Master
From 40 years to 80 and upward
From 40 years to and including 44 years of age
From 45 years to and including 49 years of age
From 50 years to and including 54 years of age
From 55 years to and including 59 years of age
From 60 years to and including 64 years of age
From 65 years to and including 69 years of age
From 70 years to and including 74 years of age
From 75 years to and including 79 years of age
From 80 years upward
Sub Master from 33 years to and including 39 years of age.
This division is for record purposes only. But shall lift in the open (Senior)
division.
Junior
From 20 years to and including 23 years of age.
The day a junior turns 24 years he or she is no longer a junior.
Teenage
From 13 years to and including 19 years of age
The day a teenager turns 20 years he or she is no longer a teenager.
From 13 years to and including 15 years of age
From 16 years to and including 17 years of age
From 18 years to and including 19 years of age
- A teenager, Junior and Master can also compete in the Open class.
(No double registrations, see 04.Weighing-in)
- Competitive lifting shall be restricted to competitors aged 13 years and over.
The lifter must have attained minimum age on day of the competition where age
limits are imposed.
D. BODY WEIGHT
CATEGORIES
Men
52.0 kg Class up to 52.0kg
56.0 kg Class from 52.01 to 56kg
60.0 kg Class from 56.01 to 60.0kg
67.5 kg Class from 60.01 to 67.5kg
75.0 kg Class from 67.51 to 75.0kg
82.5 kg Class from 75.01 to 82.5kg
90.0 kg Class from 82.51 to 90.0kg
100.0 kg Class from 90.01 to 100.0kg
110.0 kg Class from 100.01 to 110.0kg
125.0 kg Class from 110.01 to 125.0kg
140.0 kg Class from 125.01 to 140.0kg
140.0 kg + Class from 140.01 to Unlimited
Women
44.0kg Class up to 44.0kg
48.0kg Class from 44.01 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
90.0kg+ Class from 90.01 to Unlimited
02. CONTEST OFFICIALS
A. TECHNICAL COMMITTEE
- The Technical Committee is responsible for attending a technical meeting
prior to the competition.
- Technical Officers act under supervision of a Chairman of the Technical
Committee.
- Before each competition, the Chairman of the Technical Committee must satisfy
himself that the Technical Officers and Referees on duty have a complete
knowledge of their role and any new regulations contained in the current edition
of the handbook.
- All Technical Officers must be GPC Referee category 1.
- A Technical Officer shall be mastering the vehicular language (English) of the
Federation.
- Technical Officers will be responsible for:
1. Examinations of referees.
2. Appoints the Referees for
International Competition.
3. Trains Referees.
- At World Championships and International competitions, Technical Officers will
be appointed to preside over all aspects of the competition. They shall ensure
that the technical rules are correctly applied, consider and rule upon any
appeals, and generally oversee the competition and refereeing. A reserve member
will also be appointed to act in the case of another’s absence.
- The Technical Officers may, during the competition, by majority opinion,
replace any referee whose decisions, in their opinion, prove the referee to be
incompetent. The referee concerned will have received a warning prior to any
action of dismissal.
- If a serious mistake occurs in the refereeing, which is contrary to the
technical rules, the Technical Officers may take appropriate action to correct
the mistake. They cannot overrule or change the decisions of the referees but
can grant an extra attempt to the lifter by authorization.
- At least one, by preference two Technical Officers shall be present at all
lifting sessions.
The Technical Committee is responsible to control the used materials and
technical deals:
-
The platform and competition equipment complies in all respects with the
rules.
Bars and discs are checked for weight discrepancies and defective equipment
discarded.
-
Scales work correctly and are accurate.
-
The lifters weigh-in within the limits of the body weight categories, and
within the time frame of the posted weigh-in sessions.
-
Any lifter’s costume or personal equipment, if requested, is inspected and
approved or rejected.
-
That speaker-announcer, timekeeper (if not a referee), marshals/expeditors,
scorers, record processor and loaders/spotters understand their duties and the
rules that may pertain to them.
B. REFEREES
- Any national Referee that wishes to take a test become an
International Referee, must notify the Chairman of the Technical
Committee. They will be placed on a waiting list and notified of the
next available opportunity for them to take the test.
- National Referees who successfully pass 3 & 2 of the International
Referee test will qualify to become category three (1) International
Referees. Further advancement to category two (2) and one (1) will
depend upon the performance of the referee at International level. Only
when the Technical Committee and the Chairman of the Technical Officer
are satisfied that the Referee is full competent at that level, will
advancement takes place.
- GPC referees may have their refereeing status revoked upon
consideration of their performance and abilities by the Technical
officers of the GPC.
- All international referees, (cat 1, 2 or 3) who do not referee an
international event for 2 consecutive years, will lose this
international referee status, and if they wish to continue as an
international referee they must re sit the referees test.
- Any GPC referee whom trough his actions, showing bias towards a lifter
or partiality will be suspended.
All referees in World Championships and International competitions
will be uniformly dressed to include the following:
- Men winter: Dark Blue Blazer or cardigan with GPC Referee badge on the
left breast (pocket) and trousers with a white shirt and tie.
- Men summer: White shirt and trousers, ties optional.
- Women winter: Dark Blue blazer or cardigan with GPC Referee badge on
the left breast (pocket) and skirt or trousers with a white blouse or
top.
- Women summer: Dress, skirt or trousers and a white blouse or top.
- The appointed GPC Contest Officials shall determine whether winter or
summer dress will be worn.
- Referees on the platform will not allow headgear (hats, caps etc...).
Referees on duty:
- There will be three referees, the head referee and two side referees.
- At World and International Competitions, only GPC Referees will
adjudicate the lifting. Two referees of the same nationality or
relatives cannot be selected to adjudicate on the same platform at one
time.
- The selection of a referee to act as head or side referee in one
session does not preclude the selection of the same referee from being
head or side referee in another session.
- The head referee is responsible for giving the necessary signals for
all three lifts for indicating to the speaker and timekeeper when the
bar is ready, for communicating to the speaker the verification of world
records, and any special decisions upon performance decided by the
referee.
- The head referee may consult with the side referees, the appointed GPC
Contest Officials or other official as necessary in order to expedite or
facilitate the running of the competition.
- The head referee must bear in mind the need to be easily visible to
the lifter performing the Squat and Dead lift and be positioned
accordingly. To avoid any distractions to the lifter the head referee
should remain motionless between signals.
- The head referee shall communicate all decisions taken in cases of
loading errors, incorrect announcements, spotter errors, or other
platform altercations of the speaker to make the appropriate
announcement. Such decisions shall be first discussed with the other
platform referees.
- The three referees may seat themselves in what they consider to be the
best viewing positions around the platform and should remain seated
during the execution of the lift, (don't ask the spotter to move. to get
a better view. lifters safety shall take priority over any thing else).
- The side referee should not impose upon the spotter’s duties but
should make adjustments to their own seating position and may lean
sideways or forward during a lift to obtain the best viewing vantage.
- Side referees during the squat must be positioned exactly to the side
or front of the squatter and not to the rear. Spotters for the squat
must provide a window for the side referee to view the Squat.
Obstructions to viewing must be corrected before the lift begins.
- The weight of the loaded bar agrees with the weight announced by the
Speaker. Referees may be issued loading charts for this purpose.
- Lifts are credited as “good lift” or “no lift” and all other aspects
of the competition run in accordance with the rules of performance.
- After the competition, the three referees shall sign the official
score sheets, record applications, and any other documents requiring
their signatures.
A referee observes a fault sufficient to give a cause for
disqualification of the lift, the procedure is as follows:
- The referees may stop the lift for discretionary safety. The head
referee shall signal the lifter with a downward motion of the arm and
the audible command of “Down” for the Dead Lift and shall instruct the
spotters to take the bar on the Squat and Bench Press, only if safe and
appropriate to do so.
- Prior to the commencement of the Squat or Bench Press, if any of the
referees do not accept any aspect of the set up of the lifter, they will
call attention to the fault as previously described. If there is a
majority opinion among the referees that a fault exists, the head
referee will not give the signal to commence the lift and will inform
the lifter to “Rack” the bar. A head referee sees a fault that may not
be visible to the side referees, e.g. hands holding the collars or discs
on the Squat or a grip in excess of 81cm on the Bench Press, may act
alone in informing the lifter to “Rack” the bar. If requested, it is
required of the head referee to quickly confirm the nature of the fault
and to explain this to the lifter or coach. The lifter will be reminded
within his remaining time that he can repeat his attempt with the fault
corrected. Note: for the above reasons it is important that the
timekeeper stops timing the attempts on the Squat and Bench Press only
when the lifter has received the commencement signal.
- Prior to the commencement of a lift, if either of the side referees
observes an obvious infraction of the rules regarding costume or
personal equipment they will call attention to the fault to the head
referee. The head referee observing an infraction may act alone.
In either case the referees will be called together to inspect the
lifter.
If the fault is considered a purposeful intention to cheat, the lifter
will be disqualified from the competition. If the fault is considered an
oversight or genuine mistake, the lifter shall correct the fault before
being permitted to proceed with the attempt. The lifter’s time allowance
will not be stopped to effectuate the correction. The way the fault is
considered and the action taken will be at the discretion of the
referees on duty.
- Procedure when a referee is blocked out of viewing a lift in progress.
If during the lift a spotter unintentionally gets in the way of a
referee’s view, so that he does not actually see the lift, the referee
should give the lifter a white light, and the spotter is warned.
- Referees shall, if requested, explain to a lifter or coach the reason
or reasons why a lift was judged “no lift”. All that is required of such
an explanation is an accurate statement, debates will not be entered
into, and an explanation will not cause distraction of the referee from
the attempt of the next lifter. Referees shall abstain from any other
commentary and not receive any document or verbal account concerning the
progress of the competition.
- A referee shall not attempt to influence the decision of other
referees. Once any lift has begun, each referee will withhold his
individual judgment until the completion of the lift, indicating such
with a red or white light. Under no condition should a referee raise his
hand after the lift has commenced unless to insure the safety of the
lifter.
- If any of the referees suspect without certainty any infraction of the
rules regarding costume and personal equipment they will not act until
after the lift has been performed. The lifter should then be inspected.
For a fault deemed an oversight or genuine mistake the lifter’s
attention should be drawn to the fact and warned about repeating the
infraction in any subsequent attempts. The attempt may be disqualified
at the referee’s discretion. Should the same infraction be repeated
after a warning, the attempt shall be disqualified or infractions deemed
as a purposeful intention to cheat, the lifter shall be disqualified
from the competition.
03. TECHNICAL COMPETITION RULES
a. POWERLIFTS & RULES OF
PERFORMANCE
Signals and implementation of the three lifts are as
follows:
SQUAT
Start: A visual signal consisting of a downward movement of the arm,
together with the audible command “Squat”.
Completion: A visual signal consisting of a
backward movement of the arm, together with the audible command “Rack”.
- After removing the bar from the racks while facing the front of the
platform, the lifter may move forward or backward to establish the lifting
position. The top of the bar is not more than 3cm below the top of the
anterior deltoids. The bar shall be held horizontally across the shoulders
with the hands and/or fingers gripping the bar, and the feet flat upon the
platform with the knees locked.
- The lifter shall wait in this position for the head referee’s signal. The
signal will be given as soon as the lifter is set and demonstrates control
with the bar properly positioned. The head referee’s signal shall consist of
a downward movement of the arm and audible command “Squat”.
- Upon receiving the head 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.
- The lifter must recover at will, without double bouncing, to an upright
position with the knees locked. The bar may stop, but there must be no
downward motion during recovery. As soon as the lifter demonstrated a
controlled final position, the head referee will give the signal indicating
completion of the lift and to replace the bar.
- The signal to replace the bar will consist of a backward motion of the arm
and the audible command “Rack”. The lifter must then make a bona fide
attempt to return the bar to the racks.
- The lifter shall face the front of the platform, towards the head referee.
- The lifter shall not hold the collars 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 collar.
- Not more than five and not less than two loaders/spotters shall be on the
platform at any time.
- The lifter may enlist the help of spotters in removing the bar from the
racks; however, once the bar has cleared the racks, the spotters shall not
physically assist the lifter with regards to actually getting into the
proper set position. The spotters may assist the lifter to maintain control
should the lifter stumble or demonstrate any evident instability.
- The lifter will be allowed only one commencement signal per attempt.
- The lifter may be given an additional attempt at the same weight at the
head referee’s discretion
if failure in an attempt was due to any error by one or more of the
spotters.
- Once the bar has been replaced in the racks at the completion of the lift
and the referees will announce their decisions by means of the lights, white
for a “good lift” and red for a “no lift”.
Causes for Disqualification of a Squat:
-
Failure to observe the head referee’s signals at the commencement or completion of a lift.
-
Double bouncing or more than one recovery attempt at the bottom of the lift.
-
Failure to assume an upright position with knees locked at the start and completion of the lift.
-
Failure to bend the knees and lower the body until the surface of the legs at the hip joint is lower than the tops of the knees.
-
Any resetting of the feet after the squat signal.
-
Contact with the bar by the spotters between the referee’s signals.
-
Contact of elbows or upper arms with the legs.
-
Failure to make a bona fide attempt to return the bar to the racks.
-
Movement of the feet laterally, backward or forward that would constitute a step or stumble; (rocking the feet between the ball and the heel is permitted).
-
Any intentional dropping or dumping of the bar.
BENCH PRESS
Start:
An audible command of “Press” given as soon as the bar is motionless on
the lifters chest.
Completion: An audible command of “Rack”, when the
bar has been pressed to straight-arm’s length.
- The front of the bench must be placed on the platform facing the head
referee.
- The lifter must lie backward with shoulders and buttocks in contact with
the flat bench surface. The elected position of the buttocks shall be
maintained throughout the attempt. The lifters shoes or toes must be in
solid contact with the platform or surface. The position of the head is
optional.
- To achieve firm footing, a lifter of any height may use discs or blocks to
build up the surface of the platform. Whichever method is chosen, the shoes
must be in a solid contact with the surface. If blocks are used, they shall
not exceed 45cm x 45cm.
- Not more than four and not less than two loaders/spotters shall be in
attendance. The lifter may enlist the help of one or more of the designate
spotters or enlist personal spotters, in removing the bar from the racks.
Only designated spotters may remain on the platform during the lift.
- The lift off must be to arm’s length and not down to the chest.
- After receiving the bar at arm’s length, the lifter shall lower the bar to
the chest
(not below the sternum) and await the head referee’s signal.
- It is the responsibility of the lifter to inform any personally enlisted
spotters to leave the platform as soon as the bar is secured at arm’s
length. Such spotters shall not return to the platform upon completion or
failure of the attempt.
- A designated spotter, having provided a center lift off, must immediately
clear the area in front of the head referee and move to either side of the
bar. If the personal spotter does not immediately leave the platform area
and or in any way distracts or impedes the head referees responsibilities,
the referees may determine that the lift is unacceptable, and be declared
“no lift” by the referees and given three red lights. Failure of any
personal spotters to leave the platform may cause disqualification of the
lift.
- Failure of any personal spotters to leave the platform may cause
disqualification of the lift.
- The spacing of the hands shall not exceed 81cm, measured between the
forefingers. The bar shall have circumferential machine markings or tape
indicating this maximum grip allowance. If the lifter should use an offset
or unequal grip on the bar, whereby one hand is placed outside the marking
or tape, it is the lifter’s responsibility to explain this to the head
referee, and allow inspection of the intended grip prior to making an
attempt. If this is not done until the lifter is on the platform for an
official attempt, any necessary explanation and/or measurements will be done
on the lifter’s time for that attempt.
- The reverse or underhand grip is permitted.
- The bar must be at straight arms length and motionless before the lift is
commenced.
- The lifter will be allowed only one commencement signal per attempt.
- After the signal to commence the lift has been given, the bar is pressed
upward. The bar shall not be allowed to sink into the chest or move
downwards prior to the lifter’s attempt to press upward. The lifter will
press the bar to straight arm’s length and hold motionless until the audible
command “Rack” is given. Bar may move horizontally and may stop during the
ascent, but may not move downward towards the chest.
- Once the bar has been replaced in the racks at the completion of the lift
and the referees will announce their decisions by means of the lights, white
for a “good lift” and red for a “no lift”.
Causes for Disqualification of a Bench Press:
-
Failure to observe the referee’s signals at the commencement or completion of the lift.
-
When arms are not straightened and motionless before the lift was commenced.
-
Any change in the elected lifting position or the raising of the buttocks, (as long as some portion of the buttocks remains on the bench and a referee cannot see straight through the lift is permissible).
-
Lateral movement of the hands during the lift
(between the referee’s signals).
-
Any excessive movement or change of the feet during the lift.
-
If the bar is resting on the stomach below the sternum.
-
Bouncing the bar off the chest.
-
Allowing the bar to sink into the chest after receiving the referee’s signal.
-
Pronounced a major uneven extension of the bar during or at the completion of the lift as judged by the referees.
-
Any downward motion of the bar during the course of pressing out.
-
Contact with the bar by the spotters between the referee’s signals.
-
Any contact of the lifter’s shoes with the bench or its supports.
-
Deliberate contact between the bar and the bar rest uprights during the lift to assist the completion of the press, (contact in order
to make the lift easier).
DEAD LIFT
Start:
No signal required.
Completion: A visual signal consisting of a
downward movement of the arm, together with the audible command “Down”.
- The bar must be laid horizontally in front of the lifter’s feet,
gripped with an optional grip in both hands, and lifted until the lifter is
standing erect. The bar may stop but there must be no downward motion of the
bar.
- The lifter shall face the front of the platform.
- On completion of the lift, the knees shall be locked in a straight
position and the lifter shall be standing erect, (the shoulder will not be
forward or rounded. it is not necessary that they be back past the erect
position. al be it is permissible).
- The head 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 an apparent finished position.
- Any rising of the bar or any deliberate attempt to do so will count as an
attempt.
- Once the bar has been replaced on the platform at the completion of the
lift and the referees will announce their decisions by means of the lights,
white for a “good lift” and red for a “no lift”.
Causes of Disqualification of a Dead lift:
-
Any downward motion of the bar before it reaches the final position, (at the completion of the lift, if the bar settles as the shoulders come back this should not be reason to disqualify the lift).
-
Failure to stand erect, (the shoulders will not be forward or rounded. It is not necessary that they be back past the erect position. All
be it is permissible).
-
Failure to lock the knees straight at the completion of the lift.
-
Supporting the bar on the thighs in a manner that the lifter can
obtain leverage or hitching.
-
Movement of the feet laterally, backward or forward that would
constitute a step or stumble.
-
Lowering the bar before receiving the head referee’s signal.
-
Allowing the bar to return to the platform without maintaining control with both hands.
b. INTENTIONAL FAULTS
Faults that should be considered as a purposeful intention to
cheat are:
- The use of more than one lifting suit or illegal lifting suits.
- The use of more than one supportive undershirt or illegal undershirt.
- The use of more than one pair of briefs.
- The use of more than one pair of wraps, or wraps substantially
over regulation length.
- Any additions in excess of the prescribed costume and personal
equipment rules, e.g. body wraps, towel inserts, bracing’s etc.
- Presence of oil, grease, liquids or lubricants other than powder on
the thighs for the Dead lift.
- Other infractions of similar gravity.
Faults as oversight or genuine mistakes:
- Socks overlaid by, or touching, knee wraps.
- Wraps applied as to obviously exceed the width dimensions allowed
for the wrist (12cm) or knee (30cm).
- Wraps slightly in excess of the prescribed regulation.
- Items forgotten to be removed that may have been worn for warm-
ups or to maintain warmth, e.g. hats, rubber elbow bands, etc..,
- Other infractions of similar consequence.
c. GENERAL
- Blood
or other foreign substances appear on the bar or equipment, must be rectified
immediately using a solution of 1 part bleach with 1 part water. The bar or
equipment must be dried and verified as clean.
- No one is allowed on the platform during lifting sessions except the lifter,
the designated loaders/spotters, the three referees on duty and any other meet
officials as designated if the need arises. Solely these personnel will handle
any cleaning, mopping, brushing or adjusting of the platform or equipment.
- Personal, non-designated spotters are not permitted on the platform for the
Squat or Dead lift. Personal non-designated spotters are permitted to lift-off
on the Bench press; however, once the bar has been correctly positioned at the
lifter’s arms length, any personal spotter must quickly leave the platform area
to a discreet position.
- Coaches shall remain back from the platform and taking place in the lifting
area. The appointed GPC Contest Officials should define a coaching area.
- When the lifter prepares for an attempt, the loaders/spotters may assist in
removing the bar from the racks. They may also assist in setting up for a squat
should the lifter stumble or lack good control, and 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 between commencement and
completion signals from the head referee.
Important exception:
for the spotters, to this rule is if the lifter has obviously failed with the
attempt, is in jeopardy of injury, or the head referee or lifter has requested
intervention, then the spotters should assume control of the bar and weights and
assist the lifter in replacing the bar back on the racks.
- Other than initial removal of the bar from the racks, the lifter should not
receive any additional help from the spotters in establishing position for an
attempt. However, should a lifter stumble or become unstable in setting up for
the Squat, the spotters should assist in steadying the lifter until control has
been regained.
- After the “Rack” command is given, the spotters may guide the bar back into
the rack, (once the “Rack” command has been given, the lift is officially over).
- Lifters shall wrap and ready themselves for lifting off the platform. Only
minor adjustments requiring no assistance may be made on the platform.
- Removing wraps, belts and costume shall be performed off the platform.
- Nothing may be purposely applied to the platform, bench or bars (oil, grease,
other lubricants and liquids, rubs, oil, liquids, or sprays. Powder includes
chalk, talc, resin, and magnesium carbonate.
- Items such as chalk, inhalants, talc, etc. should be utilized with propriety
on and around the platform area.
- In competitions under GPC jurisdiction, including any competitions where world
records are set, the weights used must be in kilograms, and the barbell must
always be a multiple of 2.5kg.
Exceptions to this rule:
A World / Continental record attempt (see WORLD, CONTINENTAL & NATIONAL
RECORDS).
- The weights shall be announced in kilograms and may additionally be announced
in pounds,
- In all competitions the weight of the barbell shall consist of the heaviest
discs available that make up a particular weight.
- The minimum increase between any attempts shall be 2.5kg. Except for men, from
1st attempt to 2nd attempt a 5kg increase must be taken, or 2nd attempt will be
forfeited and will be called the 3rd attempt.
- A lifter is permitted one change of weight on the first attempt of each lift.
This change may take place at any time, up to five minutes before the start of
the first round of that lift. Lifters in following Flights are accorded the same
privilege up to five attempts from the end of the previous Flight’s final round.
- Lifters must submit their second or third attempts within one minute of
completing the preceding attempt. If no weight is submitted within the
one-minute time allowance, the lifter will forfeit the next round attempt.
- Weights submitted for second and third attempts on the Squat and Bench Press
could not be changed.
- In the Dead lift, changes of weight are permitted. The lifter may not change
an attempt if he or she has been called to lift and the bar has been called as
“ready” or “loaded”. On second attempts, the lifter shall be allowed one change
in weight, and on third attempts, the lifter shall be allowed two changes in
weight if he or she has been called to lift, but the bar has not been called as
“ready” or “loaded”.
- In single lift meets, an opening attempt may be changed up to five minutes
prior to the start of that lifter’s flight. Third attempts may be changed as
many times as the lifter desires as long as his or her name has not been called
to lift.
- To avoid any doubt or confusion with regards to submitting attempts, the
following procedure is suggested for adoption: The chosen weights for attempts
are to be given in writing, in the form of attempt cards, to the
marshal/expeditor. Different colored cards will be used for each lift, 3 of the
same color for the Squat, 3 of another color for the Bench Press, and 3 of a
third color for the Dead Lift. The lifter of the coach will complete the
appropriate attempt cards with the weight requested and sign the card. For first
attempts the attempt cards will only be used when the weight given at the
weigh-in is changed.
- On the completion of an attempt, the lifter shall leave the platform within
thirty seconds. Failure to comply with this rule may result in disqualification
of the attempt at the discretion of the referees.
- Any physical abnormality, handicap, or incapacity of a lifter that may cause,
or potentially cause, an inability to fully comply with the rules should be
brought to the attention of, and explained to, the appointed GPC Contest
Officials. This should be in advance of the start of the lifter’s flight. The
lifter, GPC Contest Officials and the platform referees for the particular
lifter will then confer on the matter to best accommodate any special
considerations for the lifter. Deafness, blindness, limb or joint abnormalities
that prevent proper straightening or extension are examples for such special
considerations.
- If, by reason of misconduct upon or near the competition platform, any lifter
or coach is considered to have discredited the sport, such person or persons
shall officially be warned. If the misconduct continues the appointed GPC
Contest Officials together with the referees on duty, have the authority to
disqualify the lifter and order the coach and the lifter to leave the venue. The
team manager must be officially informed of both warning and disqualification.
- Excessive psyching up techniques (i.e. swearing, hitting) shall be limited at
the referee’s discretion.
- Any lifter or coach who strikes an Official or other individual at a
competition will be banned for all GPC competition indefinitely.
- All appeals against referee’s decisions or conduct, complaints regarding the
progress of the competition or against the behavior of any person or persons
taking part in the competition will be made to the appointed GPC Contest
Officials. This must be done immediately following action of which there is a
complaint or appeal. The appeal must be backed by the team manager and/or coach
and presented in the presence of either or both.
- The appointed GPC Contest Officials will consider all such complaints. If
deemed necessary, the appointed GPC Contest Officials may temporarily suspend
the progress of the completion to consider the situation fully. After due
consideration the complainant will be informed of any decision and any
appropriate measures that may be taken. The verdict of the appointed GPC Contest
Officials will be considered final and there will be no right or appeal to any
other body.
- When athletes do three unsuccessful attempts in any lifts (squat, bench, dead
lift) they will be allowed to finish the competition but they can not claim a
record or a place in the results.
- 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 preclude the advanced therapeutic use of liniments, or rubs. However, such
items must not be in evidence during platform attempts. Only powder may be used.
Powder includes chalk, talc, resin, and magnesium carbonate. Spray may be used,
but only on the lifter, not on the weight equipment.
d. ERRORS IN LOADING
- If the bar is loaded to a lighter weight than originally requested
and the attempt is successful, the lifter may accept the successful attempt at
the weight lifted, 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.
- If the bar is loaded to a heavier weight than originally requested and the
attempt is successful, the lifter will be granted the attempt at the weight
lifted. The weight will be subsequently reduced if required for other lifters.
If the attempt is not successful, the lifter will be granted a further attempt
at the originally requested weight.
- If the weight is not the same on each side of the bar and the lift is
successful, rules for overloaded and under loaded bars, as above apply. However,
if the attempt is credited to the lifter, and the weight of the bar lifted is
not a multiple of 2.5kg (I.e., a 1.25kg plate was on one side only) the weight
will be recorded at the lower multiple of 2.5kg. If the lift was unsuccessful
the lifter will be granted a further attempt at the weight originally requested.
- If any change occurs with the bar and discs during the execution of the lift
and the lift is successful, provided no weight fell off the bar, the attempt
will be accepted. If the attempt is unsuccessful, or weights fell off, the
lifter will be granted a further attempt at the same weight.
- Should the platform or equipment become disarranged during an attempt and the
attempt is successful, the attempt will be accepted. If the attempt is
unsuccessful the lifter may be granted a further attempt at the same weight, at
the discretion of the referees on duty.
- If the speaker makes a mistake by announcing a weight heavier or lighter than
that requested by the lifter, the referees will make the same decisions as for
loading errors.
- All attempts that are repeated for the above reasons will be at the end of the
round in which the error occurred.
- If a lifter misses an attempt because the speaker failed to announce the
lifter’s name at the appropriate time or weight, the weight will then be reduced
to allow the attempt within the round. Should this discovery disrupt the
anticipation of any preparing lifters, such lifters may be granted extra time in
which to prepare again, this shall be at the discretion of the referee on duty.
04. WEIGHING-IN
- All weigh-in sessions and their duration’s must be posted and
communicated to all lifters and coaches.
- The weigh-ins must be in a private area, where only the competitor,
the competitor’s coach, coach appointee, or manager, and the referees or
appointed officials are present. The lifter’s recorded body weight must
not be made public until all lifters competing in that particular
category have been weighed.
- There must be at least 2 officials from different countries at the
weigh-in at Continental or World Championships.
- There will be only 1 weigh-in; this will be the day before the
particular lifting day of those categories, the weigh-in will be open
the whole day (morning till evening).
- There is no weigh-in on the day of the lifting classes.
- The weigh-in of the competitors shall be initiated 24 hours before the
start of the competition for a particular day.
- Additional interim weigh-in sessions may be provided at the discretion
and agreement of the competition Organization Committee and appointed
GPC Contest Officials.
- In cases where inclement weather and/or hazardous conditions exist in
the area of the venue, extension of weigh-in time shall be determined
upon the discretion of the technical officer or appointed GPC contest
official.
- All lifters in the category must weigh-in during one of the mandatory
or additional
(if provided) weigh-in sessions, which will be carried out in the
presence or authority of at least one GPC referee.
- By Continental or World competitions, no double registrations, e.g.
masters and open.
- All non-open lifters must at the weigh in produce proof of birth ID
passport, driving license. Non-open lifters who do not produce proof of
age will not be allowed to weigh-in.
- The weigh-ins must be in a private area, where only the competitor,
the competitor’s coach, coach appointee, or manager, and the referees or
appointed officials are present. The lifter’s recorded body weight must
not be made public until all lifters competing in that particular
category have been weighed.
- Lifters must be weighed nude or in standard underwear (briefs for men,
bra and briefs for women).
- The weigh-in procedure must ensure that lifters are weighed only in
the presence of their own sex, additional officials may be appointed for
this purpose.
- During the weigh-in session’s lifters uncertain about items of costume
or personal equipment that may be used should have items inspected and
verified by the GPC referees.
- Lots will be drawn to establish the order of the initial weigh-in. The
lots drawn also establish the order of the lifting throughout the
competition when lifters require the same weights for their attempts.
- Each lifter may only be weighed once. Only whose body weight is
heavier or lighter than the category limits of the category entered are
allowed to return to the scale. They must return to the scales and make
weight during one of the official weigh-in sessions and before the end
of the final weigh-in sessions, otherwise they will be eliminated from
the competition for that body weight category.
- Lifters trying to make weight may be re-weighed as often as they wish
within the allowances of time and the posted weigh-in schedule.
Exception: If a lifter steps on the scale and officially enters a
certain weight class, he is not allowed to be re-weighted to make
another weight class.
- A lifter who is too heavy may move into the next higher category. The
lifter must again be weighed during the weigh-in sessions scheduled for
the new category. All qualifying standards must be met. Proof of
qualifications resides with the lifter.
- A lifter who weighs lighter than the lower limit of the category may
drop into the next lower category, provided it - has not already taken
place. All qualifying standards must be met. Proof of qualification
resides with the lifter.
- Official body weights shall be recorded to the nearest tenth of a
kilogram.
- At the weigh-in, the lifter must declare a first attempt for all three
lifts.
- Any lifter that has not weighed in and had his or her opening attempts
recorded at the last weigh-in session that ends thirty minutes prior to
the start of his or her session, round or flight, may not compete in
that session, round or flight. In the case where there is one session in
the competition, that competitor shall not be allowed to participate in
the competition.
- Weigh-in record form
must be completed in full after every session, and given to the
Technical Officer before the start of lifting.
05. ORDER OF COMPETITION
- The competition has to be organized in a manner of rise, so that the
competition starts with the light lifters and end with the heavy lifters.
- Lifters should, if required, check Squat and Bench Press rack heights and foot
block requirements during these periods prior to the start of the competition.
- 10 or less lifters in a session must lift in one Flight. 10-15 lifters in a
session may be divided into two flights though again one Flight if preferable.
- Over 15 lifters must be split into appropriate Flights. The appointed GPC
Contest Officials shall make decisions on such divisions, in conjunction with
the competition Organizing Committee.
- Wherever possible lifters in the same body weight category should all compete
in the same flight.
- Flights should be classified “A”, “B”, “C”, etc. Flight “A” will normally
consist of lifters in one body weight category, Flight “B” the next higher body
weight category, and so on. Should the amount of lifters in any particular
category necessitate that category being split into more than one Flight, and
then the first Flight should consist of lifters with lower totals than the
second Flight and so on, based on previous best total results.
Exception: Competitions combining men and women
lifters may make different determinations.
- Where there are multiple Flights, Flight “A” will complete all three rounds of
the Squat (all three attempts), then Flight “B” will make all three rounds of
the Squat, and so on, repeating the same process for the Bench press and Dead
Lift.
- When there is more than one Flight in a session, the lifting will be organized
on an alternating flight base. Consequently, a time interval between flights is
not required other than the time necessary for arranging the platform. Lifters
not in the first Flight will be able to warm-up while the first Flight is being
conducted.
- If a lifting session consists of a single Flight, at least 20 a 30-minute
interval will be taken between lifts in order to ensure adequate warm-up time.
- In the event that the number of lifters in a flight drops to ten or less,
there will be an automatic 5 minute rest following the completion of all first
attempts, then again after all record attempts.
- All lifters will take their first attempt in the first round, their second
attempt in the second round and their third attempt in the third round.
- The bar must be loaded progressively during a round on the principle of a
raising bar. At no time will the bar be reduced within a round except for errors
as described herein, and then only at the end of the round.
- Lifting order in each round will be determined by the lifter’s choice of
weight per attempt. When two lifters choose the same weight, the lifter with the
lowest lot number drawn prior to weigh-in, will lift first.
- A lifter will not be allowed to call for a weight lower than the attempted in
the previous round.
- If unsuccessful with an attempt, the lifter will wait until the end of the
round before attempting that weight again.
- All attempts taken over due to a scorekeeper’s error, loader’s or spotter’s
error, or for any other reason, except failure for the lifter to be announced,
will occur at the end of the round in which the error occurred, regardless of
the progressive advancement of the bar. If such an error occurs to the last
lifter in the round, the error will be corrected immediately and the lifter will
be given the opportunity to take the attempt over within four minutes of the bar
being loaded.
Also, if such an error occurs to the first lifter in a round, and the attempt is
repeated at the end of the round with the lifter again the first lifter in the
next round, then four minutes will be allowed between the repeated attempt at
the end of the round and the next attempt by the same lifter at the beginning of
the following round. These are two of the rare occasions when lifters will
follow themselves.
- A lifter is permitted one change of weight on the first attempt of each lift.
This change may take place at any time, up to five minutes before the start of
the first round of that lift. Lifters in following Flights are accorded the same
privilege up to five attempts from the end of the previous Flight’s final round.
The speaker will announce prior notice of these deadlines. Oversights in making
these announcements should not be at the jeopardy of the lifter. The three
platform referees or GPC Contest Officials shall rule on such discrepancies that
arise.
06. COSTUME & PERSONAL EQUIPMENT
- On the platform, the lifter’s costume and personal equipment visually
meet acceptable standards and are within the rules.
- Shirts or suits shall not portray indecency or be offensive to the
spirit of the competition.
a. INSPECTION OF COSTUME & PERSONAL EQUIPMENT
- At all competitions there will be no official inspection of costume
and personal equipment.
- It will be the lifter responsibility to be presents the
costume/equipment in accordance with the rules.
- Any item mentioned previously under costume and personal equipment may
be inspected prior to the competition if the lifter has any doubt as to
the legality of that item. Such inspections should be requested during
the weigh-in sessions and directed to one of the GPC referees present,
not an appointed weigh-in official.
- Inspections may also be made at any time prior to lifting by one of
the appointed GPC Contest Officials or GPC Referee. Any conjecture or
doubt about the legality of any such items shall be referred to the
appointed GPC Contest Officials.
- Items of personal attire not covered in the rules governing costumes
and personal equipment such as: headbands, mouthpieces, ribbons,
watches, costume jewelry, eyewear and feminine hygiene articles are
permitted.
Exception: hats, bandanas or headbands worn
as to cover the head as a hat are not permitted to be worn on the
platform.
- Any lifter performing on the platform may be inspected before or after
a lift if any of the referees doubt the legality of the costume or
personal equipment being used.
b. SQUAT / LIFTING SUIT
- A lifting suit shall be worn. It must be an individual full-length
article of cloth fabric. Its construction may consist of multiple plies
to any thickness but must, as a whole, be a singular component. The
straps must be worn over the shoulders at all times while lifting in
competition. It may be of any color or colors. The length of the leg,
when worn must not exceed beyond mid-thigh (medial point between crotch
and top of kneecap). Women may wear a one-piece suit of comparable
design to the lifting suit.
Exception: Leotards with sleeves or high
cut leg lines are not permitted.
- Reasonable patching to repair tears is permitted, but the number and
placement of the patching shall not be designed to increase, enlarge or
enhance the body's natural musculature, or to alter the design of the
shirt.
- Only one lifting suit may be worn.
- One shirt (of a design consistent with what is commonly called a
T-shirt) with or without sleeves may be worn under the squat / lifting
suit.
c. BRIEFS
- A pair of briefs of any design may be worn, provided that the
length of the legs are less than those of the squat / lifting suit when
worn, and that the waist does not extend beyond approximately mid-torso.
- The briefs must be individual articles of a cloth fabric. The
construction may consist of multiple plies to any thickness but must, as
a whole, be a singular component. Athletic supporters are permitted
under the briefs.
- Only one pair of briefs may be worn under the squat / lifting suit.
d. BENCH SHIRT
- Bench shirts will be checked at each weight in and can be
checked at any time during the competition.
- The shirt must have the manufacturer's original and true collar in
place and not be excessively loose or widely open.
- The neck has to be uncut or repaired in the original state. A shirt
that is open at the neck and has foreign material sewn in to close the
shirt is not legal.
- Shoulder must be covered.
- The back of the shirt must be completely closed, either with standard
shirt material as part of the singular shirt construction or with the
appropriate Velcro closure. Patches and additional materials sewn into
the back do not constitute the correct closure.
- Sleeves must be short and remain above the elbow when worn.
- The shirts can be made of denim and/or any combination of nylon,
rayon, cotton, or polyester.
Maximum a double ply shirt is allowed for use. Canvas is not
allowed. It may be of any colour or colours.
e. BELT
- A competitor may wear a belt. If worn, it shall be on the
outside of the lifting suit.
- Width of belt to be a maximum of 10cm.
- Thickness of belt to be a maximum of 13mm, along the main length.
f. MATERIALS OF CONSTRUCTION
- The main body shall be made of leather in one or more laminations that
which may be glued and/or stitched together, or of cloth, vinyl, or
nylon with no metal materials allowed in belt except as noted below.
- It 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 non-leather
components permitted. The buckle shall be attached at one end of the
belt by means of studs or stitching.
- The belt shall not have any inflatable component on or within any of
its surfaces.
- A leather, cloth, vinyl or nylon tongue hoop shall be attached close
to the buckle by means of studs and/or stitching.
- The lifter’s name, the name of the nation, state or club may appear on
the outside of the belt.
- A one or two prong buckle as well as the lever action-fastening device
may be used.
g. SOCKS
- Socks may be worn; when worn they may not extend over the knee or on
the legs so that they touch any knee wrapping or kneecap supporter.
Full-length leg stockings, tights, or hose are not permitted.
- Only one pair of socks may be worn.
h. FOOTWARE
- Footwear more substantial than basic socks must be worn. The only
restrictions to such footwear are that no metal cleats or spikes are
permitted.
i. WRAPS
- The fabric nature shall be elastic weave primarily of polyester,
cotton or medical crepe singly or in combination. Wraps of rubber or
rubberized substitutes are not permitted except as noted for the elbows.
- Wraps, maybe joined together, but the fabric may not overlap i.e. they
must be join end to end only.
Wraps may be used as follows:
Wrists: Wraps not exceeding 1m in length
and 8cm in width may be worn. Alternatively elasticized wristbands not
exceeding 10cm in width may be worn. A combination of the two is not
permitted. If wristbands are of the wrap-around style, they may have a thumb
loop and Velcro patch for securing them. A wrist wrap shall not exceed
beyond 10cm above and 2cm below the center of the wrist joint, not exceeding
a total of 12cm in both directions.
Knees: Wraps not exceeding 2.5m in length and
8cm in width may be worn. Alternatively, elasticized knee supports not
exceeding 20cm in length may be worn. A combination of the two is not
permitted. A knee wrap shall not extend beyond 15cm above and 15cm below the
center of the knee joint, not exceeding a total of 30cm in both directions.
Knee wraps shall not touch the socks or lifting suits.
Elbows: Wraps may be worn only during the squat
and Dead lift competition and not during the bench press. They may cover the
general elbow area and not extend to the wrist or shoulder. They may be
supportive sleeves of rubberized material or elastic wrap, but must be of
one single unit only, and be one meter or less in total length.
j. PLASTERS
- Two
layers of plasters, band-aids or tape may be worn on the thumbs, but nowhere
else without official permission of the referees or appointed GPC Contest
Officials. No plasters or tape may be utilized as a strap to help the lifters
hold the bar.
- With the permission and supervision of the referees, the appointed GPC Contest
Officials, the official doctor, or assigned paramedic, the lifter may apply spot
plasters, bandages, tape or band aids to muscle injuries on the body. Similarly
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 around the back
of the hand.
k. HEALTH ISSUES
-
Should blood or other foreign substances appear on the lifter, it must be
rectified immediately. A wound must be cleaned and a patch or bandage applied so
as to prevent further contamination of the bar or equipment.
l. SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Women may wear additional protective briefs or panties. Women may also wear a
bra provided it contains no special support. The use of tampons, sanitary
napkins or related articles used for feminine hygiene is permitted.
- Plastic or fabric shin guards may be worn but must not extend to a point
higher than the lower border of the patella and not lower than the superior
border of the ankle joint.
m. GENERAL
- 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. Only powder may be
used, powder includes chalk, talc, resin, and magnesium carbonate, spray may be
used, but only on the lifter, not on the weight equipment.
- All articles of lifters costumes and personal equipment shall be clean and
generally neat and presentable. In the discretion of the referee, a lifter will
not continue in the competition if this provision is not met.
- Emblems, logos or inscriptions on the lifters suit, shirt or belt that witch
is offensive or liable to bring the sport in disrepute is not allowed.
- Any items worn on the platform considered objectionable by virtue of being
unclean, torn or tattered, indecent or offensive to the spirit of the
competition should be rejected before the lifter is permitted to proceed.
- If a lifter performs on the platform wearing or using any item that is illegal
or not verifiably approved, the lifter shall lose credit for that lift, and may
be disqualified from the competition. Any minor oversights, or items covered
above, noticed before the lifter performs, should be indicated to the lifter and
rectified prior to continuing.
07.WORLD, CONTINENTAL & NATIONAL RECORDS
At any World, International or National Championship recognized by
the GPC, World records will be accepted provided that:
- The competition must be conducted under GPC rules or a national
variation or the rules accepted by the GPC.
- The World / Continental record applicant must be a current member of
The National Federation affiliated to the GPC or a current GPC Affiliate
Member from a country not organized with a National Federation
affiliated to the GPC.
- At World / Continental records, at least two current International GPC
referees must adjudicate the lift and vouch that all conditions at the
competition meet the technical standards and procedures required. The
third referee must be at least a current National referee of a National
Federation affiliated to the GPC.
- Country which have paid their Continental contribution fee, but is in
default to pay the World contribution fee, the made World records by
lifters of such a specific country will not be recognized for the
records list.
- The barbell and discs were weighed before the competition, all actual
weights accurately recorded and able to be verified by the referees or
appointed GPC Contest Officials or weighed immediately after the
successful attempt by the referees.
- The lifter weighed in correctly before the competition.
- The scales were certified accurate by a recognized authority within
the last 6 months, and a scale test slip prepared by the Municipal
Sealer of Weights and Measures (or equivalent) or by an authorized scale
company, is available.
- The lifter’s costume and personal equipment was in accordance with the
rules. Any lifter successful in a world record attempt must be
inspected. Inspection may be solely visual when the legality of the
lifters costume and personal equipment is obvious, or otherwise more
thorough. Thorough inspections should be performed off the platform,
preferably in a private area, either by the three referees, or officials
delegated by the referees in cases where the lifter if of the opposite
sex. In all cases the head referee shall make an announcement to the
speaker and records processor that the record has been verified.
- Duplicate copies of fully completed World / Continental record
applications, signed by the three referees, must be sent separately to
the World / Continental Records Register and Head of the GPC Technical
Committee (as indicated on the Record Application Form) within one
calendar month of the date of the record being set. A copy of the
official score sheet must also accompany both record applications.
- For Teenage, Junior (under 23) and Master World / Continental records,
proof of age must be satisfactorily established and attested to by the
adjudicating GPC referees. If such proof was not available when the
record was established, it is the lifter’s responsibility to furnish
such proof (copy of birth certificate, passport, or driver’s license)
independently to both, the World / Continental Records Registrar and
Head of the GPC Technical Committee, before the record can be ratified.
- If, in any competition recognized by the GPC, a lifter is successful
with an attempt that falls within 20kg of a current World / Continental
record, the lifter may request a fourth attempt that exceeds the record.
Such an attempt will be registered outside the competition. Additional
attempts will not be permitted.
- Only lifters actually competing in a competition may attempt World /
Continental records.
- In no circumstances may lifters not taking part in the full
competition be permitted to attempt world records on individual lifts.
- Records are only valid for the body weight category of the lifter as
determined at the official weigh-in.
- Records in Sq, Bp or Dl, lifted in a total power-lifting contest will
be also a valid record for the single contest record list.
- In the event of two lifters, at the same competition, breaking either
a current individual or total record with the same weight, the lighter
lifter will be declared the new record holder. If both lifters weighed
in at the same body weight they will be re-weighed. If they reweigh the
same, both will be record holders.
- For a World / Continental record attempt made outside the completion
(4th attempt), the weight of the barbell must be at least 500 grams in
excess of the current record. Such record attempts will be made at the
end of the third round of the lifting flight.
- For a World / Continental record attempt made within the prescribed
attempts of the competition, a lifter may request on any attempt, a
weight that exceeds the current record by at least 500 grams. If the
lift is successful, only the lower closest multiple of 2.5kg will be
recorded on the score sheet and the exact weight will be recorded on the
record application. Pound weights may be used if they are weighed
properly and converted to kilos.
- New individual lift records are only valid if they exceed the previous
record by at least 500 grams. Fractions of 500 grams must be ignored;
e.g. 87.7kg would be registered as 87.5kg.
- There is an official World record for the total of three lifts.
It will be recognized subject to the following additional
stipulations:
-
The record will only be the summation of the face value of the
individual best lifts, and therefore must be a multiple of 2.5kg.
-
No fourth attempts may be included in the total. Records set on
individual lifts will only be valid if the lifter makes a total in the
competition.
-
Records set in competitions, which contest one lift only, shall not be
considered as GPC World / Continental Records but shall be noted and
established as Official One Lift Records only e.g. a World / Continental
Bench press Record for the World / Continental Bench press Committee, and a
World / Continental Dead lift Record for the World / Continental Dead lift
Committee.
- If a lifter attempting a fourth attempt World/ Continental record is one
of the last four lifters of the flight in the third attempts, they will received
up to 3 additional minutes rest prior to their fourth attempt.
- The very last lifter of the flight requesting a fourth attempt will have 3
minutes because they are following themselves, plus the additional 3 minutes = a
total of 6 minutes.
08. COMPETITION ORGANISER
a. REFERENCE
- Technical checklist:
A promoter must send back to the
secretariat the technical checklist signed for approval.
- Entry fees for the athletes at World championships are:
- 50 € Power lifting.
- 50 € Bench Press.
- 80 € Power lifting and Bench Press.
Compensation for referees:
- The GPC advise the Organizer to pay referees accommodations, by day
refereed.
-
By International competitions if the organizer / promoter can satisfy to
the stay of the board members, then GPC World will make a budget available
for the payment of Referees.
-
Only referees with at least 5 hour work on a competition day will
qualified.
-
This budget can never go up to more than 50% of the contribution fees
from the year before and the standard compensation will be 50€ a day.
-
This payment is regulated by the treasurer.
- Officials and Referees on duty during the competition shall be granted
that at least one free meal, and should also have the benefit of non
alcoholic drinks served each competition day in the competition area.
- For World championships, the medals need a quality standard, with a
specific size of 7,5 cm (2.8 inch) diameter and 4mm (0,16 inch) thickness.
- All athletes must get a print-out of the competition results at the end of
their competition.
- The name of the athlete must be followed by the three most recent lifts and
total. Also needed are their weight class, category and country. The promoter
must put it online before the competition and email it to the webmaster to put
it on the World Website.
- The promoter must put a list online before the competition of all referees
that will be present at that competition and email the list to the chairman of
the technical committee.
b. INSURANCE
- The
GPC and AFFILIATE FEDERATIONS do not provide accident, medical, or liability
insurance for lifters or spectators at meets and organized training sessions. It
is the responsibility of the Meet Director to Secure Insurance if he wishes to
do so.
- The GPC, AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS, SACTIONING OFFICIALS and CO-OPERATORS assume
no liability for injury, damages, personal losses or death resulting at an
event.
- It is advisable that all Meet Directors have the lifter sign a waiver of
liability form which clearly states that the Meet Director, Sanctioning
Officials and co-operators will not be held liable for any injury etc.., that
occurs at an event, the release form should also state that the competitor
acknowledges he/she is competing at his/her own risk.
c. COMPETITION ORGANISATION
Will appoint the following officials:
1. Speaker-Announcer
2. Time Keeper (Preferably a GPC referee)
3. Marshal/Expeditors
4. Record keeper
5. Loaders/Spotters
6. Additional officials
Responsibilities of these officials are:
The speaker
Is responsible for the efficient running of the competition, and acts as Master
of Ceremonies. The speaker arranges the attempts chosen by the lifters in an
orderly fashion, dictated by weight, and if necessary, lot number, and announces
the weight required for the next attempt along with the name of the lifter.
Additionally the speaker announces, in order, the three lifters succeeding the
lifter on deck. When the bar is loaded and the platform cleared for lifting, the
head referee will indicate the fact to the speaker, who will in turn announce
that the bar is ready and call the lifter to the platform. Attempts announced by
the speaker should ideally be displayed upon some type of scoreboard erected in
a prominent position. The speaker is also responsible for announcing the
deadlines that pertain to the Round System, the approach of the time limit for
changing first attempts, 5 minutes before the commencement of a first Flight, 5
attempts before the commencement of a following Flight.
The timekeeper
Is responsible for accurately recording the time laps between the announcement
that the bar is ready and the referee’s signal for the commencement of the
attempt by the lifter. The timekeeper is also responsible for recording other
time allowances whenever required, e.g. after an attempt the lifter shall leave
the platform within 30 seconds. Once the clock is running for an attempt, it can
only be stopped by the completion of the time allowance, the start of the lift,
or at the discretion of the head referee who shall inform the timekeeper
immediately. Consequently, it is of great importance that the lifter or lifter’s
coach check the height of the squat racks and any bench pressing requirements,
if details have not previously been collected, prior to being called, as once
the bar is announced as being ready, the clock will be started. Any further
adjustments to the equipment must be made within the lifter’s one-minute
allowance. The definition of the start of an attempt depends upon particular
lift being performed. In the Squat and Bench Press, the start coincides with the
referee’s commencement signal. In the Dead lift, the start is when the lifter
makes a determined attempt to raise the bar. It is the timekeeper’s duty to stop
the clock at these defined starts so that any buzzer that may be connected to
the timing device will not distract the lifter.
Marshals/Expeditors
Are responsible for collecting the weight required for next attempts from the
lifters or their coaches and passing the information without delay to scorer’s
table and speaker preferably in the form of the suggested colored attempt cards.
The lifter is allowed one minute between completion of one attempt and
submitting to the marshal/expeditor the weight required for the next attempt.
The timing of this operation is the responsibility of the marshal/expeditor,
under the auspices of the head referee.
The record keeper
Is specifically accountable for all world records broken, for collecting the
details and initiating the paperwork information, and is responsible for
accurately recording the progress of the competition, and on completion,
ensuring that the three referees sign the official score sheets.
Loaders/Spotters
- Are responsible for loading and unloading the bar, adjusting squat or bench
rack requirements as necessary, cleaning the bar or platform upon request and
agreement of the head referee, and generally ensuring that the platform is well
maintained and of a neat and tidy appearance at all times.
- At no time shall there be less than two or more than five loaders/spotters
attending to the platform.
- Blood or other foreign substances appear on the bar or equipment must be
rectified immediately using a solution of 1 part bleach with 1 part water. The
bar or equipment must be dried and verified as clean.
Additional officials
Will be appointed as required, or by need e.g. doctors, paramedics, etc.
d. TECHNICAL CHECKLIST
Lifting area
□ Boundaries of the lifting area must be marked
clearly for the knowledge of the officials, lifters and spotters. It is
recommended that this area will be at last 7m long x 5m broad (22ft x 16ft).
□ Coaches shall not be allowed at the back or sides of
this area.
□ A scoreboard, preferably an overhead projector to
replace the scoreboard.
□ Table and seats near the platform for, announcer, record
and timekeeper, computer operator, etc…
□ A table and chairs for the Technical Officers.
□ A table for display of trophies, (near the lifting
area).
Platform
□ All lifts shall be carried out on a platform not less
than 2.46m x 2.46m (8ft x 8ft) and secure enough to insure the safety of the
lifter, spotters and loaders.
□ The surface of the platform must be firm, non-slip and
level with no discernible seams in the vicinity of the general lifting area.
Rubber mats or similar sheeting materials are permitted.
□ Loose mats or similar sheeting materials are not
permitted.
Platform equipment
□ Take into account the possibility, that in today’s
competition,
that the bar can be loaded in the excess of 500kg.
□ Monolift, bench and disc racks.
□ Bars (of which 1 special
squatbar), collars.
□ Discs: 4 / 6 x 50kg, 8 /12 x 25, 2 x 20, 2x 15, 2 x 10,
2 x 5, 2 x 2,5, 2 x 1,25 and
Record discs, 2 x 1 kg, 2 x 0,5, 2 x 0,25.
□ Foot blocks for benching.
□ Winner’s podium, 1, 2 & 3rd place.
□ Box with adequate supply of chalk.
□ Cleaning materials, (broom, mop, vacuum cleaner, and
towel).
□ Scrubbing brush for cleaning the barbell.
□ A disinfecting solution or similar for disinfecting the
barbell.
□ Seats (3) for the referees.
□ Seats at the rear of platform for loaders.
□ A lighting system for scoring (white, red light).
□ A lifting attempt board, showing the actual weight on
the bar.
□ A clock, visible for lifters, showing the remainder
time.
Warm up area
□ The warm up area should be at least 100 m2.
□ A minimum of four platforms.
□ A minimum of two squat racks
or monostands, of which at least one
monolift (preferable two) and two benches.
□ Each platform equipped with bars
(of which 1 special squatbar),
collars and the
necessary discs.
Weight in room
□ A lockable and clean room.
□ A certified weight scale, (preferable digital).
□ A second balance (scale) will be available for the
lifters, for the whole duration of weight-in days, at main hotel.
□ Table and chairs for referees.
Dressing room
□ Man and Women separately.
□ All normal facilities.
Officials room
□ A clean room (preferable locked).
□ Tables and chairs.
□ Facilities for change of clothes.
□ Connectors for charge batteries and laptops.
5. EQUPMENT & SPECIFICATIONS
Bars, discs & collars
- For all power lifting competitions under the rules of the GPC, only disc
barbells are permitted. Only bars and discs that meet all specifications can be
used throughout the entire competition and for all lifts. The use of bars or
discs that do not conform to specifications will invalidate any records that may
have been accomplished.
- Different bars suited to particular lifts may be utilized providing that they
conform to the specifications.
Specifications:
The bar must be straight, well kurled and grooved, and
shall conform to the following dimensions:
-
1. Total overall length not to exceed 2.2m, except for specialized squat
bar.
-
Distance between the inside collar is not to exceed 1.32m or be less
than 1.31m except for specialized squat bar.
-
Diameter of the bar is not to exceed 29mm, or be less than 28mm, except
for specialized squat bar.
-
Weight of the bar and collars are to be 25kg.
-
Weight of specialized squat bar and collars are to be 30kg.
-
Specialized squat bar shall have a maximum diameter of 32mm; a maximum
sleeve length of 508mm; distance between inside collar faces not to exceed
1434mm; a maximum overall length of 2400mm.
-
Diameter of the sleeve 49.5 - 52mm.
-
There shall be a circumference machine marking or the bar shall be taped
so as to measure 81cm between machining and tape.
Disc dimensions:
-
The diameter size in the middle of the disc shall be such that the disc
fits on the bar without excessive play.
-
All discs used in competition must weigh within 0.25% of their correct
face value.
-
Discs must be of the following range 1.25kg, 2.5kg, 5kg, 10kg, 15kg,
20kg, 25kg, 45kg, and 50kg.
-
For record setting purposes discs of 0.5kg and 0.25kg should also be
available.
-
For records, even lighter discs may be used to achieve a weight of at
least 500 grams more than the existing record.
-
Discs must be clearly marked with their weight and loaded in the
sequence of heavier disc innermost with the small discs in descending
weight.
-
The first and heaviest discs loaded on the bar must be loaded faces in;
with the rest of the discs loaded face out as weight is loaded.
-
The diameter of the largest disc shall be no more 45cm.
-
Discs conform to the following color-coding 10kg and below any color;
15kg yellow; 20kg blue; 25kg red; 45kg gold; 50kg green.
Collars:
-
Must be used at every competition.
-
Must weigh 2.5kg each unless specialized squat bar is used. Collars made
specifically for specialized squat bar are to be used with that specific
bar.
Squat racks:
-
Squat racks shall be of a sturdy construction and provide maximum
stability. The base shall be of such design that it does not impede the
lifter or the loaders / spotters. It may consist of a one-piece unit or two
separate stands designed to hold the bar in a horizontal position.
-
The design of the squat racks shall allow adjustments that accommodate
all lifters.
-
Height adjustments should be at incremental stages not exceeding 5cm.
-
For extra safety all hydraulic racks should be capable of being secured
at the required height by means of pins.
-
In all World / Continental or National competitions an adjustable rack
with a hydraulic mechanism or a non-conventional squat rack e.g. Mono-lift
should be used.
Bench:
-
The bench shall be of sturdy construction for maximum stability and
conform to the following dimensions:
1. Length: not less than 1.22m and shall be flat and level.
2. Width: 29-32cm.
3. Height: 42-45cm measured from the floor to the top of the padded surface
of the bench without being depressed or compacted.
-
The height of the uprights on adjustable benches should be from a
minimum of 82cm to a maximum of 100cm measured from the floor to the bar
rest position. On non-adjustable benches the height of the uprights must be
between 87cm and 100cm from the floor to the bar rest position.
-
The minimum width between the insides of the bar rests shall be 1.10m.
Lights
-
A system of lights shall be provided whereby the referees make known
their decisions.
-
Each referee will control a white and red light, representing a “good
lift” or “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 referees.
-
For emergency purposes i.e. a breakdown in the electrical system, the
referees should also be provided with small white and red flags with which
to make known their decisions, or using thumbs up or down.
Scoreboard
-
A proper detailed scoreboard visual to the spectators, officials, and
all concerned with the progress of the competition must be provided.
