Powerlifting Trends to Watch

 Powerlifting is a strength and conditioning sport consisting of three lifts at maximum weight. The three lifts are the squat, seat (bench) press, and deadlift. Though these exercises are standardized, lifters can vary them up slightly using different grips, stances, and positions. Powerlifting can be done competitively or simply to spice up one’s exercise routine.

Powerlifting uses raw human strength to lift as much weight as possible. It’s different from bodybuilding, whose focus is to attain a particular physique. While it optimizes performance, powerlifting also increases power and strength, improves body composition, and helps develop lean muscle. For powerlifting enthusiasts, keeping tabs on changing trends that affect the sport is good.

For example, there is a market move to home gyms. The trend towards home gyms gained momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic when many fitness enthusiasts were forced to work from home following the closure of public gyms.

Although most gyms have reopened, many people continue working out at home. Today, thanks to personal trainers and the wide availability of home gym equipment, it’s easy to create a home gym. Working with a personal trainer, a powerlifter can set goals and receive workout instructions in person or virtually.

For home gym equipment, a squat rack and bench press are a must. Getting a squat rack incorporating the bench press is also possible. Next, for a powerlifting home gym, weigh plates and barbells are required. Solid iron plates might be acceptable if the gym is inside a basement or garage. However, for delicate flooring, rubber-coated plates are a better choice.

Other items include a deadlifting platform or heavy-duty floor mats to protect the weight plates and floor from the effects of deadweights. Remember also to get a powerlifting belt, lifting straps, and wrist wraps. Straps are particularly critical for the deadlift and help the powerlifter to maintain a safe grip on the barbell.

Smart technology and wearable devices have changed how people exercise. Today, wearables measure physical activity, heart rate variability, sleep patterns, and overall wellness. According to Statista, in 2022, globally, end users spent an estimated $900 billion on wearable devices.

Powerlifters, too, are searching for easier and better ways to stay motivated, fit, and healthy. Today, wearable technology offers the perfect solution. With fitness wearables, powerlifters can track fitness goals and record progress more easily.

Virtual reality (VR) technology is trending in many sectors. It has also infiltrated the fitness world. Today, powerlifters can participate in the sport virtually from the comfort of their homes. VR has reduced the need to visit a public gym for those who value privacy as they exercise. Powerlifters can create online group training in a shared and secure virtual environment. This way, powerlifters can motivate and offer mutual support to each other. To enter a VR, all a powerlifter needs is a good VR headset.

Finally, it’s important to note the growing popularity of raw powerlifting. In raw powerlifting, the sportsperson relies on their strength without any other equipment or asset support. There are no hand, elbow, or knee straps, suits, or rigid shirts, hence the term raw powerlifting. At the competitive level, raw powerlifting appeals to newcomers and women as it’s more accessible, perhaps due to cost and requirements implications.