How is a lifter's body weight evaluated during weigh-ins?

A lifter's body weight is evaluated during weigh-ins by stepping on a calibrated scale without any additional equipment. This method ensures accuracy and consistency in measurement, which are critical for determining the lifter's weight class. Weigh-ins must be conducted under controlled conditions to maintain fairness in competitions.

Using a calibrated scale ensures that the measurements are reliable and meet the standards set by the International Powerlifting Federation. Conducting the weigh-in without additional equipment, such as clothing or accessories, helps eliminate variability that could affect the weight recorded. Accurate weight measurements are essential not only for classifying lifters into weight categories but also for promoting safety and integrity within the competition.

Other methods, such as using uncalibrated scales or allowing lifters to wear shoes or extra clothing, would introduce discrepancies in the weight measurement, compromising the fairness of the competition. Relying on an average weight from previous competitions would not reflect the lifter's current weight and could lead to inaccuracies. Therefore, the selected method is the most appropriate and adheres to the guidelines established by the IPF.