EQUIPMENT AND SPECIFICATIONS
1. Platform
All lifts shall be carried out on a platform measuring
between 2.5 m x 2.5 m minimum and 4.0 m x 4.0 m maximum. The surface of the
platform must be flat, firm non-slip and level. It must not exceed 10 cm in
height from the surrounding stage or floor. The surface of the platform may be
treated with an approved non-slip coating. Loose rubber mats or similar sheeting
materials are not permitted. No additives may be applied to, or inserts
incorporated in either the platform or its surface.
2 Bars and Discs
For all powerlifting contests organized under the rules of NASA, only disc
barbells are permitted. The use of discs which do not meet the current
specifications will invalidate the contest and any records accomplished. Only
those bars and discs that meet all specifications may be used throughout the
entire competition and for all lifts. The bar shall not be changed during the
competition unless it is bent or damaged in some way as determined by the
referees. Bars to be used in World or Regional Championships shall not be
chromed on the knurling between the inside collars
(a) The bar shall be straight and well knurled and grooved and
shall conform to the following dimensions:
1. Total overall length not to exceed 2.2 m.
2. Distance between the collar faces is not to exceed 1.32 m or be less
than 1.31 m.
3. Diameter of the bar is not to exceed 29 mm or be less than 28 mm.
4. Weight of the bar and collars is to be 25 kg.
5. Diameter of the sleeve not to exceed 52 mm or be less than 50 mm.
6. There shall be a diameter machined marking or the bar taped so as to measure
81 cm between marking or tape.
![]()
(b) Discs shall conform as follows:
1. All discs used in competition must weigh within 0.25 percent of their correct
face value.
2. The hole size in the middle of the disc may not exceed 53 mm or be less than
51 mm.
3. Discs must be within the following range: 1.25kg, 2.5kg, 5kg, 10kg, 20kg,
25kg, 45kg and 50 kg.
4. For record purposes, lighter discs may be used to achieve a weight of at
least 500 gr more than the existing record.
5. Discs weighing 25 kg and over must not exceed 6 cm in thickness. Discs
weighing 20 kg and under must not exceed 3 cm in thickness.
6. Discs must conform to the following color code: 10 kg and under any color, 15
kg - yellow or black, 20kg - blue or black, 25 kg - red, 45 kg- gold, 50 kg-
green.
7. All discs must be clearly marked with their weight and loaded in the sequence
of heavier discs inner most with the smaller discs in descending weight arranged
so that the referees can read the weight on each disc.
8. The first and heaviest discs loaded on the bar must be loaded face in; with
the remainder of the discs loaded face out.
9. The diameter of the largest disc shall not be more than 45 cm.
3. Collars
(a) Shall always by used in competition.
(b) Must weigh 2.5 kg each.
4. Squat Racks
(a) Squat racks shall be of sturdy construction and provide maximum stability.
The base shall be of such design that it does not impede the lifter or the
spotter loaders. It may consist of a one piece unit or two separate stands
designed to hold the bar in a horizontal position.
(b) The squat racks shall be designed to adjust from a minimum height of 1.00 m
in the lowest position to extend to a height of at least 1.70 m in 5 cm
increments.
(C) All hydraulic racks must be capable of being secured at the required
height by means of pins.
5. Bench
(a) The bench shall be of sturdy construction for maximum stability and
conform to the following dimensions:
1. Length - not less than 1.22 m and shall be flat and level.
2. Width - not less than 29 cm and not exceeding 32cm.
3. Height - not less than 42 cm and not exceeding 45 cm measured from the floor
to the top of the padded surface of the bench without it being depressed or
compacted. The height of the uprights on both adjustable and non-adjustable
benches shall be a minimum of 82 cm to a maximum of 100 cm measured from the
floor to the bar rest position.
4. Minimum width between insides of bar rests shall be 1.10 m.
6. Lights
A system of lights shall be provided whereby the referees make known their
decisions. Each referee will control a white and a red light. These two colors
represent a "good lift" and "no lift" respectively.
The lights shall be arranged horizontally to correspond with the positions of
the three referees. They must be wired in such a way that they light up together
and not separately when activated by the referees. For emergency purposes, i.e.
a breakdown In the electrical system, the referees will be provided with small
white and red flags with which to make known their decisions. The numbered cards
issued to members of the Jury shall correspond to the allocated light position
of the three referees reading 1,2,3 from left to right, viewed from the front of
the platform.