National Powerlifting Qualifying Totals

Powerlifting is a strength sport that involves the performance of three attempts at maximum weight on three lifts: the squat, bench press, and deadlift. National powerlifting qualifying totals must be achieved in order to compete at the national level.

Squat

The squat requires the athlete to lower their body from a standing position to a squatting position and then back up to the standing position with a barbell on the back. The qualifying total for the squat is based on the athlete's bodyweight and ranges from a minimum of 300 pounds for lightweight athletes to a maximum of 500 pounds for super heavyweight athletes.

Bench Press

The bench press requires the athlete to press a barbell off their chest and back up to a lockout position. The qualifying total for the bench press is based on the athlete's bodyweight and ranges from a minimum of 200 pounds for lightweight athletes to a maximum of 300 pounds for super heavyweight athletes.

Deadlift

The deadlift requires the athlete to lift a barbell from the ground to a standing position. The qualifying total for the deadlift is based on the athlete's bodyweight and ranges from a minimum of 350 pounds for lightweight athletes to a maximum of 600 pounds for super heavyweight athletes.

Conclusion

In order to qualify for national powerlifting competitions, athletes must achieve certain minimum totals on the squat, bench press, and deadlift based on their bodyweight. These totals range from 300-500 pounds on the squat, 200-300 pounds on the bench press, and 350-600 pounds on the deadlift.