Normative data for the squat, bench press and deadlift exercises in powerlifting: Data from 809,986 competition entries

Abstract

Objectives: Strength assessment and comparison to normative values are an important benchmarking tool in human health and performance. However, population specific normative data are several decades old, lack information about adolescent and adult strength levels and are not representative of the strength levels of strength trained individuals. The purpose of this study was to develop contemporary strength norms for the squat, bench press, and deadlift using powerlifters competing in un-equipped, drug-tested competitions.

Design: Retrospective cross-sectional analysis.

Methods: Retrospective data from global drug-tested, unequipped powerlifting competitions were collated with 809,986 samples (571,650 males, 238,336 females) included. Strength was assessed according to sex, United Nations age classifications, and competitive powerlifting weight class. Strength was expressed relatively (ratio of weight lifted/bodyweight) and computed for the 10th-90th percentile for each of the above categories.

Results: Relative strength was greatest for young adults (18-35 years; 90th percentile for squat [male: 2.83 × bodyweight, female: 2.26], bench press [male: 1.95, female: 1.35], deadlift [male: 3.25, female: 2.66]) before declining thereafter for all three exercises. Although lower than their younger counterparts, very old adults (>80 years) had 90th percentile data for the squat of male: 1.72 and female: 1.01, bench press: male: 1.31 and female: 0.92, and deadlift: male: 2.30 and female: 1.68.

Conclusions: These findings provide a comprehensive, accurate and precise representation of strength for drug-tested, unequipped powerlifters in each category and serve as a point of reference for other trained population groups. To facilitate uptake and ease of comparison, we have developed a freely available online tool (www.thestrengthinitiative.com).

Keywords: Athletes; Growth, development and ageing; Musculoskeletal function; Physical examination.