Guides
Powerlifting
Maximal strength in the squat, bench press, and deadlift.
Powerlifting is the pursuit of maximal strength in three lifts: the squat, the bench press, and the deadlift. A meet is scored by the heaviest successful attempt in each, summed into a total.
What matters most
- The competition lifts: training centers on the squat, bench, and deadlift, plus close variations that carry over to them.
- Intensity: strength is built with heavier loads and lower reps, often expressed as a percentage of your one-rep max (1RM).
- Technique under load: efficient bar paths and bracing let you express more strength and stay safe near maximal weights.
- Peaking: programs ramp toward a meet, raising intensity and shedding fatigue so you're freshest on competition day.
This is a starting stub. See Basics of Training for the core principles and Neuromuscular for why early strength gains come fast.