What are the weight classes in para powerlifting?
I · Intermediate · Athletes and categories · 1 of 2Women lift in ten categories: up to 41, 45, 50, 55, 61, 67, 73, 79 and 86 kg and over 86 kg. Men lift up to 49, 54, 59, 65, 72, 80, 88, 97 and 107 kg and over 107 kg. Age groups are Rookie (15 to 17), Next Gen (18 to 20), Elite (15 up) and Legend (45 up).
How it works
- Women: 41 kg to over 86 kg.
- Men: 49 kg to over 107 kg.
- One category: per competition.
- Rookie: 15 to 17.
- Next Gen: 18 to 20.
- Elite: 15 and over.
- Legend: 45 and over.
- Age: reached by 31 December that year.
The glossary has the bodyweight categories, the age groups (para powerlifting), the weigh-in (para powerlifting), the random weigh-in, the combined categories and the record attempt.
Tricky cases
Can a 16-year-old lift in Elite?
Yes. Elite is 15 and over.
Can an athlete enter two categories?
No. One per competition.
A lifter turns 45 in December. Legend this year?
Yes.
Is there a Legend record list?
Yes. Records are kept for all four age groups.
Why the rule exists
Bodyweight affects strength, so categories keep contests close. Age groups give young and older lifters their own records.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Women | 10 categories from 41 kg | 10.3 |
| Men | 10 categories from 49 kg | 10.3 |
| Age | Four groups | 11.1 |
From the rule book
World Para Powerlifting, Rules and Regulations 2025, version 1 (1 May 2025), rules 10.3, 11.1 and 26. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: WPPO Rules and Regulations 2025.