What is the minimum requirement for a lift to be considered valid?

A lift is considered valid in powerlifting when the lifter follows the commands given by the referees. This adherence to commands is crucial because it ensures that the lift is performed in accordance with the standardized rules of the competition. Each lift has specific commands that must be obeyed to maintain the integrity of the competition and ensure a level playing field for all competitors.

Following commands provides a systematic approach to executing lifts, establishing clear phases for performance, such as when to begin the lift and when it is complete. This is essential in minimizing any ambiguity about the lift's success and ensuring that judges can accurately assess the performance. By ensuring that all lifts are judged consistently based on the commands, the competition maintains fairness and uniformity.

Other considerations, such as completing the lift without assistance, using correct lifting technique, and adhering to weight class guidelines, are also important factors in powerlifting. However, they do not encapsulate the fundamental requirement that is essential for a lift to be validated in the eyes of the referees. The necessity to follow commands distinctly emphasizes the procedural integrity of powerlifting competitions.