Powerlifting was one of the first sports contested by people with a disability. Powerlifting requires strength, power, coordination and dedication to training.
For athletes with a vision impairment, competition consists of the bench press, squat and dead lift. Athletes with an amputation, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury or other physical disability compete in the bench press only.
Download our Powerlifting fact sheet for more details.
Local programs
New lifters are encouraged to do a general fitness/strength and conditioning program prior to starting a specific powerlifting training program.
Powerlifters with a vision impairment can contact their local powerlifting club for information about come and try opportunities and membership. For a list of powerlifting clubs in your area, visit Queensland Weightlifting Association.
Sporting Wheelies and Disabled Association coordinates a powerlifting squad for people with a physical disability at The Gym. The Association can provide regional powerlifters with coaching support and advice about suitable gyms in their area.
If you would like assistance making contact with your local powerlifting club or gym, please contact us.
Development
Coaching and development opportunities are provided through local powerlifting clubs and governing bodies for the sport for lifters with a vision impairment. The Association coordinates coaching and development opportunities for lifters with a physical disability.
Competition opportunities and pathways
Powerlifters can compete in state, national and international events including the Association’s Powerlifting State Championships, Powerlifting Australia National Championships, and the Paralympics. Athletes are placed in divisions based on body weight and are separated into male and female weight divisions.
Powerlifters need to be classified to compete at state, national and international level.
Members can apply for state, national and international funding from the Association.
Equipment
Powerlifters with a vision impairment require squat racks, benches, bar and free weights, which many gyms and all powerlifting clubs have. Powerlifters with a physical disability require an extended bench (width and length) so that feet can be placed on the bench, and a bar and free weights.
All of the above equipment is located at The Gym.
Other roles
You don’t have to be a powerlifter to be involved. You can make a contribution as a volunteer, coach, team manager, official, administrator of the sport or as an enthusiastic supporter. For more information on volunteer opportunities, contact our Volunteer Coordinator at the Brisbane office or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
Check our Calendar for upcoming events and Gallery for the latest powerlifting photos.
Useful links:
Australian Paralympic Committee
Powerflifting Australia
Queensland Weightlifting Association
