What do para powerlifters wear and lift on?
Officials' detail · The lift · 1 of 1The bench is 2,100 mm long and 480 to 500 mm high, on a 4 m square platform. The bar weighs 20 kg, with collars of 2.5 kg and hand-limit marks 810 mm apart. Athletes wear one form-fitting, single-layer suit and may use one or two straps between ankles and hips, from approved suppliers at top events. Kit is checked before lifting.
How it works
- Bench: 2,100 mm long, 610 mm wide.
- Height: 480 to 500 mm.
- Platform: 4 m by 4 m.
- Bar: 20 kg, 28 mm thick.
- Collars: 2.5 kg each.
- Suit: one layer, no padding or pockets.
- Straps: one or two, 7.5 to 10 cm wide, not overlapping.
- Kit check: in warm-up and the call area.
The glossary has the bench (para powerlifting), the bar and discs, the lifting suit (para powerlifting), the bench straps, the kit check and the competition platform.
Tricky cases
Can a lifter wear a padded suit?
No.
Can two straps overlap?
No.
Where may straps go?
Between the middle of the ankles and the middle of the hips.
When are 50 kg discs used?
For attempts of 236 kg and above.
Why the rule exists
Equal benches and bars make lifts comparable. Single-layer suits stop gear adding to the lift.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Suit | Approved suppliers at top events | 16.2 |
| Straps | One or two | 16.9 |
| Strap placement | Exceptions by code | 16.9 |
From the rule book
World Para Powerlifting, Rules and Regulations 2025, version 1 (1 May 2025), rules 16 and 17, with Appendix 5, Equipment Regulations and Requirements, version 1.3, sections 4.3 to 4.6. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: WPPO Rules and Regulations 2025.