What is the Difference Between Raw and Equipped Powerlifting?

Introduction

Powerlifting is a competitive strength sport that consists of three main lifts: the squat, bench press, and deadlift. Powerlifters are divided into two categories: raw and equipped powerlifters. While both types of powerlifters aim to lift as much weight as possible, they differ in the type of equipment they use and the rules they follow. In this article, we will explore the key differences between raw and equipped powerlifting.

Raw Powerlifting

In raw powerlifting, lifters compete without the use of any supportive gear other than a belt, wrist wraps, and knee sleeves. The objective is to lift the maximum weight using only the lifter’s own strength and technique. Raw powerlifting is considered to be more pure and focuses solely on the lifter’s raw strength. It requires a high level of technique, stability, and overall body strength.

Equipped Powerlifting

Equipped powerlifting involves the use of specialized supportive gear that assists the lifter in lifting heavier weights. This gear includes squat suits, bench shirts, and deadlift suits, which are designed to provide additional stability and help lifters handle greater loads. These suits are made from materials like canvas, polyester, or denim and have tight-fitting designs to store elastic energy and generate more power during the lift.

Equipment and Gear

One of the primary differences between raw and equipped powerlifting is the equipment and gear used. Raw powerlifters typically use a standard powerlifting belt, wrist wraps, and knee sleeves to provide extra support and stability. On the other hand, equipped powerlifters rely on specialized supportive gear like squat suits, bench shirts, and deadlift suits, which add tension and compression to assist in the lifting process.

Technique and Execution

Raw powerlifting emphasizes proper technique, as lifters must rely solely on their own strength and form to lift the weight. It requires a high level of skill and control to execute the lifts correctly. Equipped powerlifting, on the other hand, involves a different technique due to the assistance provided by the gear. Lifters need to learn how to use the equipment effectively to maximize their performance and take advantage of the elastic energy stored in the suits.

Weight Lifted

Equipped powerlifting allows lifters to handle heavier weights compared to raw powerlifting. The supportive gear used in equipped powerlifting assists in reducing the range of motion, providing extra stability, and aiding in generating more power during the lift. This enables lifters to lift weights that would otherwise be impossible without the gear. Raw powerlifting focuses on lifting the maximum weight using the lifter’s own strength and places less emphasis on the amount lifted.

Competition and Records

In powerlifting competitions, there are separate divisions for raw and equipped lifters. Each division has specific rules and guidelines that participants must follow. This ensures fair competition and allows lifters to compete against others with similar lifting styles. Records are also kept separately for raw and equipped powerlifting, recognizing the achievements of lifters in each category.

Training and Preparation

Training methods and preparation vary between raw and equipped powerlifting. Raw powerlifters focus on building overall strength, technique, and stability, as they rely solely on their own abilities. They often train using higher volumes and concentrate on exercises that improve their core strength. Equipped powerlifters, on the other hand, incorporate gear-specific training to learn how to utilize the equipment effectively and optimize their performance in lifts.

Bodyweight and Weight Classes

Both raw and equipped powerlifting competitions have weight classes to provide fair competition among athletes of similar bodyweights. However, the bodyweight of the lifter may affect their performance differently in each category. Raw powerlifting places more emphasis on the lifter’s bodyweight, as the gear does not assist in reducing the load. In equipped powerlifting, the gear can help compensate for a lifter’s lower bodyweight, allowing them to handle heavier weights.

Risk of Injury

While powerlifting inherently carries some risk of injury due to the heavy weights involved, equipped powerlifting may pose a higher risk. The gear used in equipped powerlifting can provide added stability, but it can also create a false sense of security. Lifters may push themselves to lift heavier weights due to the assistance from the gear, potentially leading to improper technique and increased risk of injury. Raw powerlifting, with its focus on pure strength and technique, may have a lower risk of injury as lifters rely solely on their own abilities.

Conclusion

Raw and equipped powerlifting differ in the type of equipment used, the technique required, the weight lifted, and the overall approach to the sport. Raw powerlifting emphasizes pure strength and technique, while equipped powerlifting utilizes specialized gear to aid in lifting heavier weights. Both types of powerlifting have their own unique challenges and attract different athletes with varying preferences. Whether you choose to compete as a raw or equipped powerlifter, the sport offers an opportunity to push your limits and showcase your strength.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can powerlifters switch between raw and equipped lifting?

Yes, powerlifters can switch between raw and equipped lifting based on their preferences and goals. Some lifters may choose to compete in both categories to experience different aspects of the sport.

2. Is one type of powerlifting better than the other?

There is no definitive answer to this question as it ultimately depends on individual preferences and goals. Some lifters prefer the purity of raw powerlifting, while others enjoy the challenge and support offered by equipped powerlifting.

3. Are there different judging criteria for raw and equipped powerlifting?

While the main judging criteria remain the same for both raw and equipped powerlifting, there may be slight variations in how lifts are evaluated based on the rules and guidelines of each division.

4. Can someone transition from raw to equipped powerlifting?

Yes, lifters can transition from raw to equipped powerlifting. It requires learning the techniques specific to equipped lifting and becoming familiar with the supportive gear used in the sport.

5. Are there any age restrictions for powerlifting?

Powerlifting does not have strict age restrictions. Lifters of all ages can participate in the sport, with competitions often featuring different age categories and divisions to ensure fair competition.