Too many federations. Which is right for me?

[sen2two]

I'm looking to do my first meet. I found a website that has a search engine to find lift meets, which is great.

But...

I had no idea there were a never ending supply of federations that put on meets. I have no clue which one would be correct for me, as it would take weeks of researching each one reading the rules and regulations.

Can anyone tell me the "Main", more professional, not fly by night meets? The only one I ever heard of is USAPL.


I lift "Raw" by most standards. Belt only for Squat (I would prefer if knee sleeves were allowed), Nothing for bench, Belt only for Deadlift. But.... I recently start TRT as prescribed by a Doctor after 3 very low labs over the course of a year. So I believe that means I have to compete in a non tested federation.....?


PS... I also compete in grappling/BJJ. So I have seen well run and not so well run competitions. I want to try and avoid that.

[Brandon2576]

Honestly man you get what you get. The best federation in my opinion is gonna be the one that is hosting a meet closest to where you live.

[golli1982]

I’ve competed in many different feds over the years and all had their good points. I’ve done APA, APF, SPF, RPS, and I’m gonna compete in a USPF meet in April. Whichever is closest

[PhDPepper1111]

Honestly man you get what you get. The best federation in my opinion is gonna be the one that is hosting a meet closest to where you live.

Agree with these guys. USPA is most active in my state and the PL gym in my town puts on USPA sanctioned meets, but there are lots out there.
The real question you need to ask yourself is if you want a tested vs non-tested fed (or both since many have different categories).
Most of them have raw/classic categories so make sure they have what you want. Narrow it down to 1 or 2 to start, read their rules, compete and enjoy!

You can always change feds later if you find you don't like it.

[tobistrength]

If you are on HRT you should not be competing in the USAPL or any other drug tested federation. That is cheating. USPA and other non tested divisions is what you should be competing in to play fair. Don't worry about winning just worry about doing better than you ever have been. I know there are many USAPL and IPF lifters who cheat by being on stuff yet competing in drug tested divisions and marketing themselves as natural but that is immoral as it gets they should just compete against the honest big boys that use. However do what you want.

[readreindeer666]

Listen to your heart bro