AAU Powerlifting Program Objectives

Powerlifting offers a way to test one's physical strength. Competition revolves around three lifts: the squat, bench press and the deadlift, either as individual lifts or combined as a total. each lifter is allowed three attempts in each lift and the highest successful attempt is added to the total to determine the winner in a particular weight class and age group.

Athletic Strength Powerlifting competition is also offered to high school and college sport programs. This differs from traditional Powerlifting primarily in the squat and bench as they are scored on the basis of multiple repetitions rather than a single maximum lift. Also, the powerclean replaces the deadlift. This tests the athletes' strength and endurance simultaneously.

The AAU Powerlifting Program is dedicated to promoting and providing competition in Powerlifting and developing and expanding the current programs for lifters of all ages in Equipped competition (using supportive gear) and RAW competition (no supportive gear, only a belt). Competition is offered for the following divisions and age groups for both women and men.

Kids Strong: 5 and under, 6-7, 8-9, 10-11
Youth: 13
Teenage: 14-15, 16-17, 18-19
Juniors: 20-23
Open: Anyone who qualifies
Sub Masters: 35-39
Masters: 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, etc.
Novice: all ages and weight classes.

Weight classes in pounds:

Women: 66, 77, 88, 97, 105, 114, 123, 132, 148, 165, 181, 198, 190
Men: 66, 77, 88, 97, 105, 114, 123, 132, 148, 165, 181, 198, 220, 242, 275, 319, 319