What determines if a lift is successful or not?

The success of a lift in powerlifting is determined by judges' evaluations based on execution. Each lift must meet specific criteria set by the powerlifting federation, which includes the proper technique, form, and adherence to the rules. Judges assess whether the lifter completed the movement as per the defined standards, taking into consideration factors such as depth in squats, lockout in bench presses, and the execution of deadlifts.

The opinion of the judges is critical as they have the responsibility to ensure fairness and enforce the rules during the competition. Their trained evaluations are what's recorded as the final decision for each lift. Other factors like a lifter's appearance, audience reactions, or the time taken to complete the lift do not influence whether a lift is considered successful or not, as these are subjective and do not adhere to the strict guidelines outlined for competitive lifts.