Deadlift Standards
The deadlift is the final event in a powerlifting competition. This event usually decides the outcome of the competition, since many medal placings get determined by the last pull. The deadlift is when the barbell is lifted from the floor so that the lifter is standing in an erect position with their shoulders back and knees locked.
Athletes are given one minute from when the speaker announces that the bar is loaded to set up their stance and grip, and initiate upward movement of the bar. There is no start command in deadlift, so the attempt begins as soon as a pronounced attempt to pull on the bar has occurred.
The following is an example of a proper finishing position on the deadlift:
- Shoulders blades pulled back
- Knees are locked
- Standing upright
Following the end position, with the knees locked and shoulders back, the athlete will receive the "down" command from the Chief Referee. At that point, the athlete is required to return the bar to the floor without losing their grip. Therefore, the athlete must continue to grip the bar during the descent of the movement. Once the bar returns to the floor, the lifter may take their hands off the bar.
Causes for Disqualification:
- Any downward movement of the bar before it reaches the final position.
- Failure to stand erect with the shoulders back.
- Failure to lock the knees straight at the completion of the lift.
- Supporting the bar on the thighs during the performance of the lift. If the bar edges up the thigh but is not supported this is not reason for disqualification. the lifter should benefit in all decision of doubt made by the referee.
- Stepping backward or forward or moving the feet laterally. Rocking the feet between the ball and heel is permitted. Foot movement after the command "down" will not be cause for failure.
- Lowering the bar before receiving the Chief Referee's signal.
- Allowing the bar to return to the platform without maintaining control with both hands, i.e. releasing the bar from the palms of the hand.
- Failure to comply with any of the items outline under the Rules of Performance in the IPF Technical Handbook.