Weightlifting: Scoring in Olympic Weightlifting and Powerlifting

How Do They Score Weightlifting?

Competitive weightlifting is scored by totaling the maximum successful weight lifted across specific disciplines, with different rules and judging criteria applied based on the sport, primarily Olympic Weightlifting (Snatch and Clean & Jerk) and Powerlifting (Squat, Bench Press, and Deadlift).

Understanding Competitive Weightlifting Disciplines

The term "weightlifting" is often used broadly, but in competitive contexts, it typically refers to two distinct strength sports governed by different federations and with unique scoring methods: Olympic Weightlifting and Powerlifting. While both involve lifting heavy barbells, their techniques, rules, and how a successful lift is determined and scored vary significantly.

Olympic Weightlifting: The Snatch and Clean & Jerk

Olympic Weightlifting comprises two highly technical lifts: the Snatch and the Clean & Jerk. The objective is to lift the maximum possible weight overhead in a single, continuous motion (Snatch) or in two distinct movements (Clean & Jerk).

• Attempt Structure: Each lifter is allowed three attempts for the Snatch and three attempts for the Clean & Jerk. Lifters declare their desired weight for each attempt, which must be a minimum of 1 kg increment from the previous successful lift.
• Judging Criteria: Three referees observe each lift. A lift is considered successful if at least two out of the three referees give a "good lift" signal (white light). Common reasons for a "no lift" (red light) include:
  • Press-out: Re-bending or pressing the elbows to complete the lockout.
  • Lack of Control: Not demonstrating control of the barbell overhead.
  • Foot Movement: Moving the feet after the lift is completed and before the referee's "down" signal.
  • Dropping the Barbell: Not controlling the barbell down to the platform after the "down" signal.
  • Touching the Platform: Any part of the body other than the feet touching the platform during the lift.
• Scoring: The lifter's best successful Snatch lift and best successful Clean & Jerk lift are added together to form their Total. The athlete with the highest Total wins their respective weight category.
• Tie-Breaking: If two or more lifters achieve the same Total, the lifter with the lighter bodyweight at the weigh-in wins. If bodyweights are also identical, the lifter who achieved their Total first (based on the attempt number of their final successful lift) is declared the winner.

Powerlifting: Squat, Bench Press, and Deadlift

Powerlifting tests maximal strength in three fundamental compound movements: the Back Squat, Bench Press, and Deadlift.

• Attempt Structure: Similar to Olympic Weightlifting, lifters get three attempts for each of the three lifts. The highest successful lift in each discipline contributes to the lifter's total.
• Judging Criteria: Three referees judge each lift, and a majority (at least two white lights) is required for a successful lift. Specific criteria for each lift include:
  • Squat:
    • Depth: The hip crease must descend below the top of the knee joint.
    • Rack Command: The lifter must wait for the head referee's "Squat" command to begin the descent and "Rack" command to re-rack the barbell.
    • Control: No double bouncing at the bottom or uncontrolled movement.
  • Bench Press:
    • Press Command: The lifter must wait for the head referee's "Start" command to unrack, "Press" command to begin the ascent after pausing the bar motionless on the chest, and "Rack" command to re-rack.
    • Lockout: The elbows must be fully locked out at the top of the lift.
    • Foot Position: Feet must remain flat on the floor throughout the lift.
  • Deadlift:
    • Single Pull: The bar must be lifted in one continuous movement without any downward motion.
    • Lockout: At the top, the lifter must be standing erect with shoulders pulled back and knees locked out.
    • Down Command: The bar must be lowered under control after the "Down" command; dropping the bar from the top is typically permitted once the command is given.
• Scoring: The lifter's best successful Squat, best successful Bench Press, and best successful Deadlift are added together to form their Total. The lifter with the highest Total in their respective weight class wins.
• Tie-Breaking: If lifters achieve the same Total, the lifter with the lighter bodyweight wins.
• Wilks, DOTS, or IPF Points Formula: To compare lifters across different weight categories or between genders, various formulas (e.g., Wilks, DOTS, IPF Points) are used. These formulas calculate a "coefficient" based on bodyweight, which is then multiplied by the lifter's Total to generate an adjusted score, allowing for equitable comparison of strength relative to body mass.

The Role of Referees and Equipment

In both Olympic Weightlifting and Powerlifting, the integrity of scoring relies heavily on impartial and knowledgeable referees. These officials are trained to identify technical infringements and ensure fair play. Equipment, including barbells, plates, and platforms, must meet strict federation standards and be calibrated regularly to ensure accuracy and consistency across competitions.

Conclusion

Scoring in competitive weightlifting is a precise process that combines objective measurement of weight lifted with subjective judgment of technique and adherence to strict rules. Whether it's the dynamic lifts of Olympic Weightlifting or the foundational strength tests of Powerlifting, the ultimate goal is to determine the strongest athlete through a transparent and standardized system, ensuring fair competition and celebrating peak human strength.