What should lifters ensure regarding their equipment before competing?

Lifters must ensure that their equipment is certified by the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) before competing because using certified equipment is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the sport and ensuring compliance with competition standards. Certified equipment means that it has met specific safety and performance standards established by the IPF, which helps to create a level playing field for all competitors. This certification process ensures that the equipment can withstand the rigors of competitive lifting and provide accurate measurements during the competition.

Furthermore, using non-certified equipment can lead to disqualification or invalid results, as it may not meet the necessary specifications outlined by the federation. Therefore, lifters need to prioritize using equipment that has been properly certified to comply with the rules and regulations of the IPF. This practice not only protects the lifters but also upholds the standards of the sport as a whole.