What is the minimum number of successful lifts required to receive an overall score in a powerlifting competition?

In a powerlifting competition, to receive an overall score, an athlete must complete one successful lift in each of the three competition categories: squat, bench press, and deadlift. This means that the lifter must demonstrate their ability in all of the main lifts recognized by the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF).

Successfully lifting in each category is essential, as the overall total score is derived from the sum of the best successful lifts in each of the three categories. This ensures that the lifter's performance is well-rounded and that they are competent across all aspects of the sport. If a lifter fails to make a successful lift in even one of the categories, they will not achieve a total score, thus impacting their ability to place in the competition.

For context, achieving only one successful lift overall would not reflect the athlete's capability in the sport nor provide a complete picture of their performance across all three lifts required for the competition. Hence, the requirement of successful lifts in each category is a foundational rule in powerlifting competitions.