The head of the bench should extend how many cm beyond the centre of the uprights?

The head of the bench should extend 22 cm beyond the center of the uprights in order to comply with the regulations set forth by the International Powerlifting Federation. This specific measurement ensures that lifters have adequate space to position themselves comfortably and safely while performing the bench press. It allows for a margin that accommodates the range of movement needed for the lift while maintaining the stability of the setup.

By having the bench extend this exact distance, it helps minimize the risk of the lifter's head being too close to the uprights, which could lead to an unsafe lifting condition or potential disqualification if they do not adhere to the guidelines during competition. This regulation is critical for maintaining safety and standardization across all lifting competitions, ensuring that all athletes have a fair and consistent experience.