30 Seconds SummaryWhich Powerlifting Weight Class is Best For You?
- The optimal weight class in powerlifting is the heaviest one you can fill while maintaining a lean body composition.
- Gaining muscle to move up in weight classes might make you less competitive initially, but it pays off in the long run by increasing your competitiveness.
- Avoid relying on water cuts for making weight. If necessary, limit cuts to 2-3% of your body weight for same-day weigh-ins and up to 5% for day-before weigh-ins.
- Taller lifters may need to compete in higher weight classes as their body proportions put them at a biomechanical disadvantage against shorter lifters in the same class.
- Use calculators provided in the article to estimate the potential improvement in relative strength by gaining weight or lowering body fat percentage.
- In practice, determine your best weight class by first minimizing body fat without losing strength, then progressively bulking while managing body fat levels.
- Strategically approaching weight classes and managing body composition over several years enhances long-term competitiveness in powerlifting.
- Water cutting should be minimal and managed carefully; using a sauna or hot tub is recommended over rigorous physical methods like jogging in heavy clothing.
- Steroid use can potentially shift a lifter two weight classes up but should be approached with caution, focusing on the underlying principles of maximizing fat-free mass per unit of height.
Stronger By Science
Greg Nuckols
