Powerlifting is a sport that involves lifting the maximum weight possible in the following exercises: squat, bench press, and deadlift. Regarding the competition regulations, the information is available on the website of the Italian Powerlifting Federation, which organizes national championships and is part of the large international circuit within EPF (European Powerlifting Federation) and IPF (International Powerlifting Federation).
What makes Powerlifting special?
First of all, it is a sport and not a recreational activity, and like all the sports worthy of respect which are endowed with an objective value, there’s the significant factor of competition.
Competition sets goals, having goals means growing and improving.
Lifting a load to the limit of one’s abilities is a tremendous thrill, a challenge with oneself before others. A mixture of emotions between the fear of failure and the strong desire to succeed. The adrenaline before and the euphoria after are, for those who have experienced them with the iron in their hands, great and powerful emotions.
Of course, these considerations apply to those who decide to practice Powerlifting at a competitive level.
And what about those who don’t have competitive ambitions?
Increasing maximal strength: this means improving athletic performance in any sport and preventing injuries. Moreover, enhancing maximal strength guarantees an increase in self-esteem and self-confidence. Strength is a way of life!
Muscle mass improvement: increasing lean muscle mass leads to an increase in basal metabolism. Imagine a small economy car and a Ferrari stopped at a traffic light. The engine is running, but both are in stand-by. Who consumes more fuel? The Ferrari, right? So, to burn calories at rest while sitting on the couch, you need to have the engine of a Ferrari. You’ll be more efficient. And more attractive, inevitably.
Bone, tendon, and ligament density improvement: resistance training not only provides better muscle mass, but also leads to a genuine enhancement of your skeletal and joint system. This results in better posture and increased well-being, alleviating common physical issues like back pain that often accompany a hypotonic body with poor posture habits.
Who can practice it?
Everyone! Young, older individuals, and women. For all of them, improving basic strength and lean muscle mass guarantees aesthetic, metabolic, and psychological improvements. As long as they train with equipment suitable for powerlifting.
What about competition?
Well, competition requires much more. It demands consistency, dedication, perseverance, a positive mindset, and above all, a challenging and supportive environment to compete and grow. Those who want to embark on the path of competition must take the risk of challenge, which leads from fitness to real sports.
Fun is guaranteed. Load up the barbells!
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