In the bench press, what must the lifter wait for before starting the lift?

In the bench press, a lifter must wait for the "Start" command from the referees before initiating the lift. This command is crucial as it ensures uniformity and fairness in the competition, allowing the referees to visually check that athletes are positioned correctly and ready to lift. The standard protocol requires that all competitors receive the same cue to begin, which minimizes the risk of confusion and maintains a controlled environment during the competition.

The importance of the referees' command also lies in the safety aspect, as it ensures that the lifter is prepared, the equipment is properly set, and the area is clear. The competition follows strict guidelines to uphold these standards, and the referees play a key role in ensuring that all lifts are performed under the same conditions.