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FAQs

How can I get started in weightlifting?

Head to the 'Getting involved' tab at the top of our website to find out how to:

How much does it cost to join the SAWLA and what is included?

      • Athlete: Youth (U17) & Junior (U20) - $55
      • Athlete: Senior & Masters - $85
      • Coach & Official - $25
      • Associate Member: Supporter/Volunteer - $25

Membership includes SAWLA membership & insurance and capitation with the AWF.

Only current members can compete in official weightlifting events.

What if I join for the first time later in the year?

For new members, joining fees will be calculated on a pro rata basis for athletes commencing membership part way through the year. See the Fee Schedule attached to the SAWLA Membership Form.

What other fees are involved?

Club membership

      • Clubs usually charge training fees and some clubs may charge annual membership fees. These fees may vary and they are set by the individual clubs themselves. 
      • Ask your local club about their fee structure. 

SAWLA competitions 

All SAWLA competitions require a $25 registration fee. 

If you register for a SAWLA competition and withdraw BEFORE the registrations close, you have the option to:

      • have your entry fee fully refunded 
      • ask for the registration fee to be transferred as credit for your next competition. Contact us at office@saweightlifting.org.au to nominate which competition you wish to use your credit for.
If you withdraw from a SAWLA competition AFTER the registrations close, we will provide you with the above options when you produce a medical certificate to show you weren't able to attend.

National and international competitions

National and international competitions usually require their own entry fees which will need to be paid as part of registration. Keep in mind travel and accommodation costs may need to be considered too.

What equipment do I need for training?

A good pair of weightlifting shoes is recommended. Many lifters use gear like wrist wraps and knee sleeves but these are not essential. 

Do I have to be a member of a weightlifing club to compete in a competition?

No - just make sure you're a member of the SAWLA. All SAWLA members are entitled to enter competitions, subject to the requirements of each event.

If you're a member of a club that's affiliated to the SAWLA, then you can compete under the banner of that club.

If your club or gym isn't affiliated with SAWLA, you can't include them in your registration details. Instead, the space next to your name under the “Club” heading on competition scoreboards, results, etc, will remain blank.

What do I have to wear in competition?

The dress requirements depend on the level of the competition. For Club competitions and some State competitions, competitors can wear they can wear a two-piece costume consisting of close-fitting shorts, plus a close-fitting T-shirt or singlet that covers the torso and does not cover the elbows.

For some competitions, like national and international levels, you need to wear an outfit that conforms to the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) rules.

The IWF says athletes must wear a weightlifting costume which complies with the fol­lowing criteria. You can wear any colour.

Your clothing must be:

  • one piece
  • collarless.
  • Shoes must always be worn.
Your clothing must not:
  • cover the elbows
  • cover the knees.
  • Shoes must always be worn.

What age group am I in?

Under 15: competitors are Under 15 up until 1st January in the year that they turn 16 
ie if on Jan 1 of that year you were still 14 you are U15. 

Youth (U17): competitors are Youth up until 1st January in the year that they turn 18
ie if on Jan 1 of that year you were still 16 you are U17. 

Junior (U20): competitors are Junior up until 1st January in the year that they turn 21
ie if on Jan 1 of that year you were still 19 you are U20. 

Senior: competitors 20 years old and above.

Masters: 30 years old and above! Your lifting age is the age you're turning in the current year. For example, if you're 29 on 1 January and you turn 30 on 31 December of the same year, your lifting age is 30.

Masters Age Groups are: 

      • 30-34 
      • 35–39 
      • 40–44 
      • 45–49 
      • 50–54 
      • 55–59 
      • 60–64 
      • 65–69 
      • 70–74
      • 75-79
      • 80+

If you're a Masters athlete who's reaching the qualifying totals for your weight class inSenior competitions, then you can also compete in those. 

Do weightlifters get drug tested?

Anyone of any age who competes in weightlifting can be tested at any time for prohibited substances. In Australia, drug testing in sport is conducted by a Federal Government agency called the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA).

Athletes must comply with the testing procedure or face the prospect of registering an anti-doping rule violation for failing to comply. An anti-doping rule violation usually leads to a suspension from all organised sports, not just weightlifting, for up to 2 years.

Everyone who competes in organised sport should take extra care with things such as nutritional supplements and medicines.

Some supplement products that are legally available to the general public may contain substances that are prohibited in sport, and some prescribed medicines may also be prohibited in sport.

For more information about anti-doping and prohibited substances, see the ASADA Website

Any tips or advice for first time competitors?

Have fun! Don't stress too much about which weight category you're in, what numbers you'll lift, or any of the things many lifters worry about. Consider competing a form of training and learn how to use the nerves to your advantage. 

Every single person watching wants you to make that lift, so do your best. Here is a great article for 1st time competitors.

How do I warm up for competitions?

Ideally, your coach will take care of this for you. Here is a great article as well on warming up for competitions.

At what age can children begin lifting?

Children as young as 9 can train and compete in local Club competitions and some State competitions. Young children don’t really start developing strong muscles before they reach puberty, so it’s very important to have realistic expectations of what can be achieved at a young age. 

Focus on skill  development and having fun. Children should always follow the guidance of an accredited Weightlifting Coach.

Where can I find more information on coaching and other courses?

Check the Education page for the most current courses offered in South Australia.

 
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