Important Message_Clarification on the IPF Technical Rules -- Squat/Deadlift
28th May 2023
On behalf of APU President:
Dear APU Coaches & Referees,
Please pay attention to message below from the IPF.
Yours in strength,
Sean Muir
APU President
Dear IPF Member Federation Representatives,
The IPF Executive Committee held a meeting during the latter part of April 2023. One of the agenda items discussed were the Technical Rules. We concluded that several of the rules were NOT being enforced correctly, and this email will offer clarification and guidance on the correct interpretation of the Technical Rules.
We respectfully request that you share this message with ALL of your Coaches and Referees.
Squat
The 1st technical rule we discussed at the meeting concerned the Squat.
When receiving a Blue Card, the reason for disqualification is as follows:
Failure to assume an upright position with the knees locked at the commencement or completion of the lift.
The referees are not enforcing this rule. Additionally, there are a large number of lifters than ever before, both at the start and finish of the Squat, with the bar too far down their back, causing them to lean too far forward.
The Technical Rules only allow for a small deviation (lean) forward.
Please make sure your athletes start and finish in correct position.
Deadlift
The 2nd technical rule we discussed at the meeting concerned the Deadlift.
When receiving the a Red Card the reason for disqualification is as follows:
1. Failure to lock the knees straight at the completion of the lift.
2. Failure to stand erect with the shoulders back.
Please note. When the lifter stands erect with the shoulders back, this is enough, and there is no need to have an exaggerated lockout with the shoulder way back (Often times, we see this in the sumo deadlift).
We emphasize that our comments above are NOT rule changes. They’re only being offered to clarify the rules for everyone.
Thank you,
The IPF Executive Committee.