New to powerlifting competition?
Your First Meet. Your First Total.
A practical starting point for your first day on the platform.
- Choose a competition
Read the available events, equipment divisions, testing status, entry price and venue information on the competition calendar. Ask the organiser which novice options are available.
- Check membership and enter
Your NZPU membership must cover the competition date. Membership purchase and competition entry are separate.
- Read the rules and prepare your equipment
Learn the squat, bench and deadlift commands. Check clothing and equipment against the rules used at your competition — see Resources.
- Follow the organiser's meet-day instructions
Confirm weigh-in times, identification requirements, equipment check and when to submit openers and rack heights.
- Build a successful total
Choose sensible openers with your coach or handler, listen to the officials and enjoy your first competition.