Powerlifting And The Olympics!

Powerlifting has been around for as long as any other Olympic sport, however it still stands absent from the games to this day. but why? I believe it is because of the number of federations and the different rule variations that each offer. Then there are different categories, Geared, raw, raw assisted, bench only, push/pull, and the list goes on and on.

However the IOC requires the sport be aligned with one governing body and have a specific set of standard rules. There were rumours that the reason the IOC has yet to allow a demonstration in the sport is due to the Geared side of the powerlifting world, believed to dilute the amount of actual athletic skill involved and creating a negative stigma towards the sport as a whole.

It is promising to see that the IPF is talking steps to align itself with the requirements of the IOC in hopes that one day the sport will be allowed a demonstration.

Now that all the reasons for why it is not in the games lets go over some reasons why it should be an Olympic sport.

Lack of Strength athletic representation

The Olympics currently have one sport that showcases strength, weightlifting. If you take a look at the games as a whole there are multiples of the same style of sport and the lack of strength athletics is a perfect fit to add powerlifing to the mix.

A true representation of absolute strength

The games have yet to have a sport in which absolute strength is demonstrated. The weightlifting of the games is a great showcase of skill, speed, and technique. Where the weights are extremely impressive there is still a lack of absolute strength, again the sport of powerlifting would exceed this.

Skill

Where the squat, bench, and deadlift are common place in any gym around the country, proper form and technique is learned through years of practise, like any other sport. Powerlifting is no different.

Shock and awe

Watching an athlete squat close to 1000lbs without any sort of assistance or deadlift close to the same can be quite the sight and will add to the sceptical of the Olympic games. It can provide a different style of audience as well as a lot of excitement and viewership.

Growing Popularity

Powerlifting is becoming a ever growing sport. People all over the globe are trying their hand at it and that in itself will help increase competition amongst the best on the planet but will also provide a wider and larger audience watching the actual games.

Conclusion

Powerlifting is a showcase of absolute strength, something the games have been missing for quite some time. And with proper administration, it would be a perfect fit for them. I believe it will be well recieved and provide a new look at strength athletics and help encourage the sport to continue to grow and maybe pave he path for other strength athletics to make it into the games in the near future!

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