Section 3: Playing Area
3.1 Competition Platform
The competition platform is the defined lifting area:
- Dimensions: 4 m x 4 m (13.1 ft x 13.1 ft)
- Surface: Wooden or composite non-slip material, designed to absorb impact from dropped barbells. The surface must be flat, level, and free of debris.
- Elevation: At major competitions, the platform is raised on a stage for audience visibility. The stage must be at least 10 cm (3.9 in) and no more than 150 cm (59 in) above the venue floor.
- Markings: No markings are required on the platform itself, but the platform boundaries must be clearly defined.
3.2 Warm-Up Area
A separate warm-up room must be provided adjacent to the competition venue. It must contain a minimum of one warm-up platform per 3–4 athletes in the session, each equipped with a competition-standard barbell and full set of plates. A television monitor displays the competition board (current weight, athlete order, timer) so athletes can time their warm-up attempts.
3.3 Competition Stage Layout
The competition stage includes the platform, a referee panel positioned at the front (one centre referee, two side referees), a jury table behind or to the side, a scoreboard visible to athletes and spectators, a competition clock, and the athlete/coach waiting area. The loaders' area flanks the platform on both sides where IWF-certified loaders add and remove plates between attempts.