The strength sport of powerlifting encompasses three lifts: 

• Squat
• Bench Press
• Deadlift

In competition, the athlete is allowed three attempts at each lift in an effort to move a maximum amount of weight. Because competitors are divided into classes by bodyweight, strength differentials are very important and high end competitors push the physical limits of the human body.  

World Record Examples

Squat: 
Stan Efferding- 854 lbs at 275 lbs bodyweight
Strength Differential: 3.01

Bench Press: 
Vladimir Krastov- 669 lbs at 275 lbs bodyweight
Strength Differential: 2.43

Deadlift: 
K Konstantinovs Latvia- 881 lbs at 275 bodeyweight
Strength Differential: 3.20

Squat: 
The bar is placed on the lifters back. The lifter then squats down until their femur breaks parallel with the ground. They must then return to a standing position. 

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Bench: 
The lifter lays flat on a bench, unracks the bar, lowers it to touch their chest, and then pushes it back up until their elbows are locked out. The bar is then re-racked. 

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Deadlift: 
The lifter simply must pick the bar up off the floor until they are fully upright. The hips and knees must both be locked out. 

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