EVENT RULES & REGULATIONS | LIFTING
Everything you need to know to compete with confidence
SHOW YOURSELF WHAT’S POSSIBLE —
BE READY TO COMPETE
Welcome to XYL Events — where women step outside their comfort zone, challenge themselves, and expand what they believe is possible.
This page serves as your official Event Rules & Regulations hub, including everything you need to know before event day: competition format, standards, equipment, check-in procedures, and athlete policies.
For the most up-to-date event communication, announcements, and community support, be sure to join the Athlete Hub inside Circle, where all athletes will receive key updates leading into event day.
We’re so glad you’re here — now let’s get you ready to compete.
For live updates, event-day announcements, athlete Q&A, and community support inside Circle
STRENGTH EVENTS
LIFTING MEET
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2 Main Lifts: Lifters will compete in bench and deadlift in a powerlifting meet-style manner.
3 Attempts: Each lifter will have 3 attempts at both lifts to reach their maximum lift on each movement
Total Score Combined: The highest lift of EACH lift will be combined for the scoring
All women of All Levels: We've had ages 7 to 72 years old and women lifting the bar to 500+lbs
THE DIVISIONS
This meet is non-sanctioned and open to athletes of all experience levels.
Our main divisions do not include official weigh-ins like traditional powerlifting federations. Showcase divisions are offered at select events and will include weigh-ins.
Divisions are based on the athlete’s age on meet day, and showcase categories are grouped by general bodyweight range.
Whether it’s your first competition or your fifth, XYL meets are designed to help you step outside your comfort zone, build confidence, and compete for a cause.
Athletes under the age of 18 must have a legal guardian present.
MAIN DIVISIONS
Based on athlete's age on meet day.
Mighty & Mini: Under 14 (All experience levels)
Teen: 13-17
Young Adult: 18-29
Adult: 30-44
Masters: 45-59
Golden: 60+
SHOWCASE
Weigh-ins will occur the morning of meet day during athlete check-in.
<140lbs
140-165lbs
165-190lbs
190lbs+
ADAPTIVE
Athletes in Adaptive divisions are encouraged to reach out ahead of event day so we can best support your experience.
Hearing Impaired: Athletes with significant hearing loss.
Vision Impaired: Athletes with partial or full loss of vision.
Lower Extremity Impairment: Athletes with mobility impairments affecting legs/hips (e.g., wheelchair users, limb difference, paralysis).
EQUIPMENT REGULATIONS
XYL equipment rules differ slightly from traditional sanctioned powerlifting events.
Below is a simple guide to what you can use, what you cannot use, and what you do not need in order to compete.
If you’re unsure about your gear, don’t stress — just show up. Our team will help you feel prepared
LIFT REGULATIONS & COMMANDS
To ensure a safe and fair competition, all athletes will follow the lift standards and judge commands outlined below.
BENCH
REGULATIONS
Begin with elbows locked out and the bar motionless before lowering the bar to receive the "START" command.
Bar must touch the chest before pressing upward (no pause command at XYL meets).
Elbows must return to full lockout at the top of the lift to receive the "RACK" command.
Glutes must remain on the bench and feet must stay flat on the floor throughout the lift.
COMMANDS
“PLATFORM READY” lifter can approach the platform
Lifter will unrack bar
“START” command to lower the bar
Lifter will complete the rep
“RACK” to re-rack the bar
No “PRESS” command is used at XYL meets.
DEADLIFT
REGULATIONS
Begin with the bar motionless on the floor.
The lift must be completed without hitching.
The bar must move upward continuously — no downward motion is allowed.
Finish with hips and knees fully locked out at the top.
Hitching: using the thighs to “walk” the bar upward to complete the lift.
Both sumo & conventional deadlifts are allowed
COMMANDS
“PLATFORM READY” → Athlete may approach the platform
Judge raises arm → Athlete may begin the pull
Judge lowers arm → Athlete may return the bar to the floor
Do not drop the bar from a standing position.
EVENT DAY STRUCTURE
Event day is designed to be smooth, supportive, and beginner-friendly. Below is a general outline of the day and how lifting attempts will run.
ATTEMPTS & SCORING
Each athlete will have three attempts in each lift: Squat, Bench Press, & Deadlift
Your goal is to achieve your highest successful lift in each movement.
ATTEMPTS
You will take your attempts in order with your assigned flight.
You may choose your opening weight at check-in.
After each attempt, you may increase the weight for your next attempt.
You may not lower the weight once an attempt is submitted.
Athletes will receive support at the score table if they need help selecting attempts.
SUCCESSFUL LIFTS
A lift is considered successful when:
The athlete follows all judge commands
The lift meets the required standards
The lift is completed safely and under control
If an attempt is missed, athletes may still continue with remaining attempts.
SCORING
Your best successful attempt in each lift is recorded:
Best Bench
Best Deadlift
These two lifts are added together to calculate your:
Total Score = Bench + Deadlift
Athletes are ranked within their division based on total score.
First Time Note: XYL meets are designed to be welcoming for all levels.
If this is your first competition, don’t stress — judges, coaches, and volunteers will guide you through the process.
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
Awards are given within each division based on total score:
Total Score = Best Bench + Best Deadlift
Athletes are ranked by highest total within their division.
Additional awards or special recognitions may be included at select events (eg: first-time lifter, community impact, or standout performances). Awards will take place shortly after the final deadlift flight concludes.
Most importantly, we celebrate every woman who shows up and steps on the platform.
EVENT POLICY & PROCEDURE
XYL events are designed to be empowering, supportive, and safe for all athletes — regardless of experience level.
All participants are expected to:
Follow judge commands and event standards
Treat fellow athletes, volunteers, and staff with respect
Maintain good sportsmanship throughout the day
Prioritize safety on the platform and in warm-up areas
Support the community-driven environment that makes XYL unique
XYL reserves the right to remove any athlete or spectator for unsafe or disruptive behavior.We’re here to compete hard, cheer loud, and create a space where every woman can rise.
REFUND & CANCELLATION
Due to event planning, staffing, and limited athlete spots, all registrations are considered non-refundable.
Athlete registrations may not be refunded after purchase
Transfers may be permitted on a case-by-case basis prior to event day
If an athlete is unable to attend, they are encouraged to contact the XYL team as early as possible
In the rare case that an event is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances, athletes will be notified with next-step options. All registrations directly support event operations and our local charity partner.
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SPECTATOR INFORMATION
Spectator Details
Spectators are welcome and encouraged at all XYL events.
We love the energy, support, and community that friends and family bring into the room.
To ensure a safe and positive experience for everyone, please note:
-Spectators must remain in designated viewing areas at all times
Children must be supervised by a parent or guardian
The warm-up area and platform space are reserved for athletes, coaches, and event staff only
Please be respectful of judges, volunteers, and athlete focus during lifting rotations
Outside food and drink policies may vary by venue
XYL reserves the right to remove any athlete or spectator for unsafe or disruptive behavior. We’re here to compete hard, cheer loud, and create a space where every woman can rise.
Spectator Door Fees = For the One
At many XYL events, a small spectator door fee may apply — and 10% of spectator door proceeds go directly to our For the One charity partner.
Through our For the One Campaign, every ticket purchased helps support a local organization and ensures the strength built on the platform reaches beyond the room and into someone’s life who truly needs it.
So when you show up to cheer, you’re not just supporting an athlete —
you’re helping change a life.
Thank you for being part of what makes XYL more than a competition.
Door fee amount is $8 presale and $10 at the door
ATHLETE CHECKLIST
WHAT TO BRING
To feel confident and prepared on event day, we recommend bringing:
Flat lifting shoes or training sneakers
Water bottle + snacks (you’ll be there several hours)
Any approved equipment you plan to use (belt, knee sleeves, etc.)
Comfortable athletic clothing
Optional: singlet or deadlift socks (not required at XYL meets)
A hype friend or family member to cheer you on
Don’t Stress
If this is your first event and you’re unsure what you need — just show up.
Our team and community will help you feel prepared and supported from start to finish.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUSTIONS
Do I need competition experience to participate?
Not at all. XYL meets are designed for all levels, and many athletes compete for the very first time at our events.
If you can squat, bench, and deadlift — you belong here.
Will there be spotters and safety staff?
Yes. Spotters, loaders, and judges will be present on every platform to ensure a safe and supportive competition environment.
Athletes should always follow judge commands and platform staff instructions.
Do I need special equipment or a singlet?
No. Singlets and deadlift socks are not required at XYL meets.
You may wear comfortable athletic clothing, and optional equipment like belts or knee sleeves is allowed.
How do I choose my attempt weights?
You will select your opening attempt at check-in, and you may increase weight after each successful lift.
If you’re unsure what to pick, the score table and staff are happy to help you choose attempts that feel smart and achievable. Please also message us in the Athlete Hub with any questions and our team is more than happy to help.
What if I miss an attempt?
No worries — you may still continue with your remaining attempts.
Each athlete gets three attempts per lift, and your best successful squat, bench, and deadlift will count toward your total score.
How will I know when it’s my turn to lift?
Athletes will lift in flight order, and names will be called “up to lift” and “on deck” throughout the event.
FINAL REMINDERS
FINAL EVENT REMINDERS
We want every athlete to feel confident, prepared, and supported on event day.
Please remember:
✔ Review the rules, commands, and standards outlined above
✔ Arrive early for check-in, rack height setup, and warm-ups
✔ Ask questions if you’re unsure — our staff is here to help
✔ Most importantly: this is about courage, not perfection
XYL events are designed to challenge you — but never to intimidate you.
Show up, take up space, and let this be a day you’re proud of.
ATHLETE HUB COMMUNICATION
For all live updates, event-day announcements, schedule details, and last-minute communication, athletes should join the official
This is where you're receive:
✔ Event week reminders
✔Flight assignments
✔Check-in instructions
✔Charity partner updates
✔Direct support from the XYL team
XYL events are designed to challenge you — but never to intimidate you.
Show up, take up space, and let this be a day you’re proud of.
Thank you for being part of XYL. This isn’t just a competition — it’s a moment of courage.