Longhorn Powerlifting: Frequently Asked Questions

What is Powerlifting?

Powerlifting consists of three lifts: squat, bench press, and deadlift. Check out the website to read a detailed description of each lift. In competition you make three attempts in each lift, and your best attempts are added together to create a combined total. Ranking in a meet is based upon this combined total. Specialized pieces of equipment such as a squat suit, bench shirt, knee wraps, and a powerlifting belt are used as protection against injury.

What do we offer?

The $65/semester dues allow for team-paid entry into one meet a semester, admittance into the reserved powerlifting room, and use of team equipment. There is also a $40/semester option for non-competitive members. In addition, we offer structured workout sessions, experienced coaches, a chance to compete for the University of Texas, and a shot at winning a National Championship this year.

What do we do?

We compete in 2 to 4 meets a year in meets throughout Texas and the U.S. Each spring we go to the National Collegiate Meet and compete against other powerlifters from schools across the nation. Also, each November we host the Longhorn Open, a powerlifting meet open to anyone from the Teenage to Masters divisions that is registered with the USAPL.

How do we train?

We spend between 8 and 12 weeks preparing for each meet using a periodization workout schedule: we start the cycle with high reps and low weight and increase the weight while lowering the reps each week. By the time of the meet we are working out with our old personal records. We also perform many auxiliary exercises, each carefully chosen to improve our main lifts. Note that Powerlifting is not bodybuilding! Our goal is to increase strength in the three lifts not to get pumped up. Many times we actually have to lose weight before a competition. So guys, do not join if you just want to look strong; and girls, this sport will not turn you into a she-man, guaranteed.

Am I strong enough?

Note that these totals are achieved with powerlifting equipment, which can increase your max. Also, you do not have to be this strong to join, but these will be your first goals.

 

USAPL Collegiate Qualifying Totals

Women Weight (lbs.)	97	105	114	123	132	148	165	181	198	SHW
Qualifying Total	365	391	418	440	462	507	545	589	640	655

 

Men Weight (lbs.)	114	123	132	148	165	181	198	220	242	275	SHW
Qualifying Total	655	760	885	1025	1075	1145	1250	1275	1290	1305	1325