For some people, going to the gym to grind out a tough workout is enough. Other people need more push, drive, and motivation to work out. That’s why many people join a strength sport like powerlifting. If this sounds like you, check out these preparation tips for your first powerlifting meet so you’re ready for the big day.
Just Do It
Powerlifting may seem like an intense sport because of all the heavy weight training, grunting, and screaming, but don’t feel alarmed. Powerlifting is a great activity for those who want to compete against themselves. While there are record boards with everyone’s total lifting weights in the bench, squat, and deadlift, you ultimately compete against yourself to increase your overall weights. It’s okay to be nervous. Your first competition gets your foot in the door to decide whether or not competing is truly for you.
Train Like a Powerlifter
Of course, training is one of the most crucial steps to take before your first meet. Like with any sport, powerlifting has its own specifications and training requirements to consider. For instance, many powerlifters train with multiple sets of short interval repetitions, like a 3×3, 4×4, or 5×5 block. These allow you to work on your strength, form, and explosiveness during your lifts. In powerlifting, judges determine if you executed a lift based on your form, strength, and power, so training like a powerlifter is the easiest way to excel at your competition.
Meet Daily Caloric Goals
Again, as with any sport or physical activity, a healthy diet is one of the most important preparation tips for your first powerlifting meet. Powerlifting is a unique sport in which you don’t necessarily diet down unless you need to make your weight class. Even meeting weight requirements is more for advanced or professional powerlifters. Since this is your first competition, you should focus on excelling at your bench, squat, and deadlifts. To do so, you must meet your daily caloric expectations. Doing so requires a consistent meal plan and diet rich in healthy protein, carbs, and fats. Look online for examples of powerlifting diets and other guidance.
Have the Right Equipment
Depending on the powerlifting federation, there are two types of meets to sign up for: raw or equipped. Raw powerlifting means performing the three lifts without lifting shirts or suits and, in some cases, no accessories like belts, wraps, chalk, or sleeves. Equipped federations allow for supportive equipment. Check the rules for the meet you signed up for. If they allow for supportive equipment, be sure to purchase the right ones necessary. Otherwise, prepare yourself physically and mentally for the big day.
