Raw Lifts good?

[jdspinna]

I'm getting back to the strength phase in my workout regimen and would really like to train for and compete in an amateur pl meet. I'll just list my current bodyweight and raw lifts as of recently. Let me know if they seem disproportionate to each other or to low to qualify.

BW 205

DL 500 x 1
Squat 500 x 4
Bench 330 x 1

Bench has always been a problem for me but, it's coming up quickly as of late. I have benched 340 before but, I quit training flat bench for the last few months because of a shoulder injury. Everything is back to normal now and bench feels pretty good. Also, are there any raw meets anymore or is everything assisted? Bench shirts etc...

Thanks.

[doctorherb]

IMO, raw lifts are the only "real" lifts....bench shirts are ghey

[jdspinna]

I agree. That's why I'm wondering if there are any raw competitions.

[RJstrong]

IMO, raw lifts are the only "real" lifts....bench shirts are ghey

ok... we get it you don't like bench shirts

[barbndr]

There are quite a few raw competitions but it really depends on where you live. Some meets offer Raw divisions as well as open (and countless other) divisions. Check out PLUSA or just do a search for meets in your area and see if any have a Raw class. Realistically though, if you want to compete, my advice is to just do it. Compete raw even against the guys with equipment. I know it's great winning a trophy, but you really have to consider that in Powerlifting you are basically competing against yourself. Unless your one of the top in the world, on any given weekend there is somebody who is going to be better. In 1997 I won Nationals at 220lbs in one organization, however on that same day if I competed in a different organization I would have placed 4th (I thank my father for pointing that out to me). If from one contest to the next you increase your total, then you've accomplished something. If a trophy comes along with it even better.

[jdspinna]

Thanks Barbndr. I just checked some stats searching google found some 2005 men's RAW the numbers weren't nearly as high as I expected. The 198lb class, which is probably what I would drop to, had a 1st place total of around 1200. Regardless of how I do, I think it would be fun as hell to do.

[barbndr]

Can't agree with you more. Meets are great especially when you can enjoy them. Plus, when you don't have to deal with shoehorning yourself into three different suits, it is even better. Have fun, and good luck.

[Needle_Newb]

Those RAW Meets unfortunatly do not have the best lifters in the game.

Stay tuned for the New England Record breakers taking place in May to know what the top lifters are doing RAW. The only thing permitted are Belts and knee sleeves.