07/05/2026
While we are relatively opposed to acute weight cuts (particularly larger ones) for newer and/or recreational powerlifters, it’s undeniable that they can be relevant for those trying to absolutely maximise competitiveness in powerlifting when done well 👍
The “when done well” part is key, because often they are not done well 😅
That’s arguably a big gap in the sport that has long been a huge potential opportunity.
Some people have a general stance that acute weight cuts are “bad.”
But when you look at the data, whether or not you think they are good or bad, they are happening.
In most combat sports, it’s a huge part of the sport, particularly with longer weigh-ins. You could choose not to do an acute weight cut, but it would put you at a disadvantage against your opponent, who ideally is otherwise relatively evenly matched.
To a degree it’s similar in powerlifting, albeit to a lower level. If you were up against relatively evenly matched competitors, this could be a difference maker though.
And in relation to the “they are happening” aspect - if you look at data from IPF worlds where it’s only a 2hr weigh-in, people who win medals typically average a 5% weight cut the week of competition.
That’s for 2hr weigh-ins, so you can see how crazy things can be with 24 hour weigh-ins. Both in terms of how far you can take things with minimal impact on performance if done well, as well as the potential risks associated with pushing it far, particularly if not done well.
Overall this post isn’t designed to be a comprehensive guide to cover everything you need to know about weight cuts. But it does cover some things that are hopefully helpful. If you do go down this route, we would strongly encourage working with a dietitian or sports nutritionist experienced in this space ✅
