Powerlifting might look straightforward from the outside: lift as much weight as possible. But behind every successful squat, bench press and deadlift lies a combination of physical strength, technical skill, body mechanics and strategic training.

In this episode of The Powerlifting CEO, Latitude Accountants CEO John Saade sits down with his own powerlifting coach, Bethany Parker, a national bench press champion and two-time world powerlifting champion.

Together, they explore some of the sport’s biggest controversies, from sumo deadlifting and extreme bench arches to competition rules and judging decisions.

More importantly, they tackle a question relevant to beginners and experienced athletes alike: how much of powerlifting is actually strength, and how much comes down to technique?

Is Sumo Deadlifting Cheating?

One of powerlifting’s longest-running debates revolves around two deadlifting styles: sumo and conventional.

Sumo deadlifting involves a wider stance, while conventional deadlifting generally uses a narrower foot position.

Critics sometimes argue that sumo is easier because it can reduce the distance the bar travels. However, Bethany explains that this overlooks one important factor: everyone is built differently.

How Body Proportions Influence Deadlift Technique

Different body structures naturally favour different lifting positions.

Factors that influence deadlift performance include:

• Arm length and overall wingspan.
• Torso length relative to leg length.
• Hip structure and mobility.
• Individual leverage and starting position.
• The ability to maintain an efficient movement pattern.

For example, someone with longer arms and a shorter torso may find sumo particularly advantageous.

Bethany argues that neither lifting style should automatically be considered superior. Both allow athletes to express their strength according to their natural proportions.

Ultimately, the strongest technique is the one that works best for the individual lifter.

Are Extreme Bench Press Arches Cheating?

Another controversial powerlifting technique is the exaggerated bench press arch.

Some athletes create a substantial arch through their upper back, reducing the distance the bar must travel before touching their chest.

While spectators sometimes question whether this represents genuine strength, Bethany explains that the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) has introduced additional rules governing bench press technique.

These changes affect how athletes position themselves and how deeply they must lower the bar.

Understanding the Bench Press Depth Rule

Under the bench press depth requirement discussed in the episode, athletes must lower the bar until the underside of their elbow joints reaches the required position relative to their shoulder joints.

This creates additional challenges for certain body types, particularly larger athletes who may struggle to achieve the required depth comfortably.

Bethany raises concerns about the unintended consequences of applying general movement standards to athletes with different physical structures.

Her broader argument is that competition rules should balance fairness, athlete safety and the expression of strength.

Does Bench Press Grip Width Really Matter?

A wider bench press grip can shorten the bar’s range of motion, but that does not necessarily translate into a stronger lift.

Bethany explains that an athlete must find a position where their body and the barbell work efficiently together.

An excessively wide grip might reduce movement distance while compromising the athlete’s ability to generate force.

The ideal grip depends on:

• Arm length and shoulder structure.
• Comfortable joint positioning.
• Stability throughout the movement.
• Efficient bar path.
• Individual strength and mobility.

Her practical observation is simple: if a movement looks awkward without weight, adding more weight probably will not improve it.

The Controversial Bench Press Chest Thrust Rule

John and Bethany also discuss the controversy surrounding chest movement during competition bench presses.

Some athletes use a technique that allows the bar to sink into their chest before generating upward force.

When executed skilfully, this can help athletes overcome the difficult initial portion of the press.

However, competition rules restrict chest movement once the appropriate command has been given.

Bethany explains that judging these movements can become subjective, particularly when athletes have different physical limitations.

The discussion highlights how technical rules can influence not only competition results but also the way athletes prepare and train.

How Are Powerlifting Competition Decisions Made?

Powerlifting competitions typically involve three referees assessing whether an athlete has completed a valid lift.

At higher-level international competitions, a separate jury may also review certain decisions.

Bethany explains that jury members can intervene under specific circumstances where there is reasonable doubt about a referee’s decision.

While these systems are designed to maintain consistency, interpreting technical movements can still involve subjective judgement.

Different competition environments, coaching traditions and international standards may also influence how athletes experience the sport.

Strength vs Technique: What Matters More in Powerlifting?

Perhaps the most interesting part of John and Bethany’s conversation is whether successful powerlifting depends more on muscular strength or technical ability.

Bethany believes both are essential.

An athlete who focuses exclusively on technique without training hard enough may eventually stop progressing.

Likewise, someone who constantly pushes heavier weights without improving their movement patterns may develop inefficient habits.

Why Powerlifting Requires Both Strength and Skill

Successful powerlifting requires several elements working together:

• Muscular strength: Building the physical capacity to lift heavier weights.
• Technical efficiency: Learning how to move the bar effectively.
• Programming: Structuring training around specific goals.
• Recovery: Managing fatigue and allowing the body to adapt.
• Consistency: Making sustainable improvements over time.

Rather than treating strength and technique as competing priorities, Bethany views them as complementary parts of athletic development.

How Powerlifting Training Changes Over Time

Bethany also discusses how training philosophies differ internationally.

Some coaches favour traditional linear progression, where athletes gradually increase prescribed weights.

Others use more flexible approaches that account for daily performance, fatigue and recovery.

For example, an athlete experiencing a particularly demanding week might benefit from maintaining or slightly reducing their training load rather than forcing another increase.

Building Phases vs Peaking Phases

Effective programming also depends on where an athlete sits within their training cycle.

A building phase might prioritise muscle development, higher repetitions and accessory exercises.

A peaking phase focuses more specifically on preparing an athlete to demonstrate maximum strength in competition.

Bethany emphasises that coaches and athletes must understand the purpose of each phase and remain aligned on their training goals.

Why Better Technique Supports Long-Term Strength

Although Bethany considers herself slightly more technique-focused as a coach, she recognises that an athlete’s priorities change throughout their development.

Beginners can experience significant improvements simply by learning how to move a barbell correctly.

As those early improvements slow, developing greater muscular strength becomes increasingly important.

Eventually, athletes may need to revisit their technique as their bodies, capabilities and lifting weights change.

Powerlifting therefore becomes an ongoing process of building strength, refining technique and adapting to new challenges.

The biggest lesson from Bethany’s conversation with John is that becoming stronger involves more than simply adding weight to the bar.

It requires understanding your body, training with purpose and recognising when to push harder and when to improve how you move.

Frequently Asked Questions About Powerlifting Strength and Technique

Is sumo deadlifting easier than conventional deadlifting?

Not necessarily. Sumo and conventional deadlifting offer different mechanical advantages depending on an athlete’s body proportions, mobility and individual strengths.

Does bench press technique matter more than strength?

Both are important. Technique helps athletes use their existing strength efficiently, while muscular development increases their overall lifting potential.

Why do powerlifters arch their backs during bench press?

A controlled arch can improve positioning, stability and pressing mechanics. Competition federations establish rules governing acceptable technique and movement.

How do powerlifters continue improving after beginner gains?

Progress often requires structured programming, muscle-building phases, technical refinement, appropriate recovery and adjustments based on individual performance.

What is Bethany Parker’s coaching philosophy?

Bethany places significant emphasis on technical development while recognising that athletes must also train hard, build muscle and adapt their approach throughout their lifting careers.

Build Your Business Strength With Latitude Accountants

Just as successful powerlifting requires the right combination of strength, technique and strategy, building a successful business requires more than working harder.

At Latitude Accountants, we help Australian business owners establish stronger financial foundations through proactive accounting, tax planning and business advisory services.

Whether you’re preparing for your next stage of growth or looking to improve your financial performance, our team is here to help.

Accounting Done Right. The Latitude Way.

Book your free business discovery call today.

📍 Sydney Olympic Park | Marrickville | Melbourne | Loxton | Adelaide
📞 1300 706 597
📧 info@latitudeaccountants.com.au

Disclaimer

This article is based on a discussion from The Account Rant featuring John Saade and Bethany Parker. It is provided for general information and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional fitness, medical, financial, tax, accounting, legal or business advice. Competition rules may change over time. Always consult an appropriately qualified professional regarding your individual circumstances.