Frequently asked questions.
Below you will find a selection of frequently asked questions that we hope will help you on your Powerlifting journey.
If you have a question that hasn't been answered here then please contact us for more information.
01
Is the English Powerlifting Association different to British Powerlifting?
No. The EPA is a Home Nation and part of British Powerlifting and a such represents IPF Powerlifting in England. If you are a British Powerlifting Member, and resident in an English Division, you fall under the jurisdiction of the EPA and as such you will be eligible to compete in English National Championships and claim English National Records.
To find out more about how the EPA fits into the broader organisation of British Powerlifting and the IPF, please take a look at the following diagram.
02
How do I register to compete?
The first thing that you will need to do is become a member of British Powerlifting. This can be easily acheived by visiting the following link: http://www.britishpowerlifting.org/buy-membership
Once you are a member of British Powerlifting you will then be eligible to compete in English Divisional and English National Championships.
03
When will my membership card arrive?
Once your membership application and payment have been received this is normally processed very swiftly and your membership card is usually sent out the following day.
If you have completed an online application and this has processed correctly, you will receive your membership number immediately, which will allow you to enter competitions.
04
How do I find competitions in my area?
Your first step is to make contact with your Division. You can find contact details for your Divisional Representative here.
Many English Divisions have their own Facebook Pages, but you can also stay in touch with the broader British Powerliftinjg community on the British Powerlifting Facebook Discussion Group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gbpowerfed
A full list of competitions from across the whole of British Powerlifting can also be found at the following link: http://www.britishpowerlifting.org/calendar
05
Will I be drug tested?
British Powerlifting is a drug tested Powerlifting Organisation and as a member of this Organisation you could be tested at any event.
British Powerlifting adheres to WADA Protocols and is the only UK Powerlifting Organisation to conduct 'fully independent' drug testing in line with WADA guidlines.
It is the responsibility of you the athlete to ensure that you do not contravene anti-doping rules. To find the most up to date list of banned substances please visit: https://www.wada-ama.org/en/what-we-do/prohibited-list
06
What clothing should I wear?
It is essential that you wear the appropriate clothing for Powerlifting, this applies at all levels. You will be expected to wear equipment in accordance with IPF Technical Rules and only equipment that is listed on the IPF Approved List.
N.B. There may be some leniency applied at Novice and Divisional Level, if Equipment meets IPF Technical Specifications, but at English National Level, or Higher, any equipment used must be IPF Approved. Please contact your Divisional Representative or competition organiser for clarification.
07
Can wear clothing with my Club logo on?
Yes, absolutely. Clubs and gyms are the cornerstone of the Powerlifting community.
In domestic British Powerlifting/EPA competitions you are permitted wear your name and the name of your club or personal sponsor on your lifting apparel.
If you are unsure whether what you have in mind is suitable, please contact a British Powerlifting Official who will be more than happy to advise.
08
I have never competed before, what should I expect?
If you have never competed before or are relatively new to the sport, don't panic. There will be plenty of officials and other lifters available on the day to give advice, so please remember to ask somebody if you are unsure about anything. It is sensible to attend other events in advance to get a feel for the competition environment and the running of the day. We would also recommend joining a local Powerlifting Club to meet and train alongside like minded people.
For more detailed advice here is a brief guide to competing under British Powerlifting.
Please also read the following useful article for tips about how to improve your performance on competition day.
09
I have broken an English Record, why am I not listed?
English Records must be actively claimed. This means that, in order for your Record to be officially recorded, you must complete and submit a Record Claim form to the EPA Records Registrar. Please visit the EPA Records Page for full details.