Powerlifting is the sport of strength—testing your maximum ability in three lifts: squat, bench press, and deadlift. But you don't need to compete to benefit from powerlifting training. The focus on fundamental movements and progressive overload builds real-world strength that translates to everything else. This program introduces the three lifts safely, teaching proper technique while building the strength foundation you'll use for years.

What Is Powerlifting

Powerlifting focuses on the "big three" lifts: squat, bench press, and deadlift. These compound movements test total body strength and represent the most efficient way to build raw power. In competition, you get three attempts at each lift and the highest successful attempt counts toward your total.

For beginners, powerlifting training builds strength faster than almost any other approach. The focus on heavy compound movements with progressive overload triggers rapid neural and muscular adaptations. You'll get stronger every week for months.

Technique is paramount in powerlifting. Unlike bodybuilding where feel matters, powerlifting is about moving the most weight safely. Small technique improvements can add significant pounds to your lifts, and poor technique leads to injury. Learn right from the start.

Benefits of Powerlifting Training

  • Rapid Strength Gains

    Focused heavy training produces faster strength development than any other approach.

  • Measurable Progress

    Numbers don't lie. You always know exactly how much stronger you're getting.

  • Functional Strength

    The ability to squat, push, and pull heavy weight translates to real life.

  • Efficient Training

    Three lifts target the entire body. Simple programming, maximum results.

  • Community

    Powerlifting has a welcoming community of lifters who help each other improve.

  • Lifetime Sport

    Age-group competitions allow powerlifting at any age. It's truly a lifelong pursuit.

Program Overview

Frequency3 days per week
Duration60-75 minutes per session
StructureLinear progression on squat, bench, deadlift with accessory work
EquipmentBarbell and plates, Squat rack, Bench, Deadlift platform

Who it's for: Beginners interested in building strength through powerlifting

Don't have all this equipment? GymFriend can build you a custom program using whatever you have available.

Why These Exercises?

Each exercise in this program was selected for a specific reason. Here's why:

Barbell Full Squat

The first powerlifting competition lift. Builds leg and core strength while testing full body coordination.

Barbell Bench Press

The second competition lift. Tests upper body pressing strength with strict technique.

Barbell Deadlift

The third competition lift. Raw strength from floor to lockout. Often the heaviest lift.

Barbell Full Squat

Builds strength out of the hole and improves technique by eliminating momentum.

Barbell Close-grip Bench Press

Builds tricep strength for the lockout portion of bench press.

Barbell Romanian Deadlift

Accessory for hamstring strength and deadlift positioning.

The Complete 3 days Program

Follow this program consistently for best results. Start with weights that feel manageable and aim to increase gradually each week as you get stronger.

Day 1
Day 1: Squat Day
Ankle Circles
1 sets10 each leg reps
Barbell Full Squat
Add 5-10 lbs each session
5 sets5 reps95-185 lbs3-5 minutes rest
Barbell Bench Press
Light technique work
3 sets8 reps65-115 lbs2-3 minutes rest
Barbell Romanian Deadlift
3 sets8 reps95-135 lbs2 minutes rest
Dumbbell Lunge
3 sets8 each leg reps20-35 lb dumbbells each90 seconds rest
Weighted Front Plank
3 sets45 seconds60 seconds rest
Standing Calves Calf Stretch
30 seconds each leg
Hamstring Stretch
30 seconds each leg
Kneeling Lat Stretch
30 seconds each side
Day 2
Day 2: Bench Day
Push-up
2 sets10 reps
Barbell Bench Press
Add 5 lbs each session
5 sets5 reps95-155 lbs3-5 minutes rest
Barbell Full Squat
Light technique work
3 sets8 reps75-135 lbs2-3 minutes rest
Barbell Bent Over Row
4 sets6 reps95-145 lbs2-3 minutes rest
Barbell Close-grip Bench Press
3 sets8 reps65-105 lbs2 minutes rest
Cable Rear Delt Row (with Rope)
3 sets15 reps25-40 lbs60 seconds rest
Behind Head Chest Stretch
30 seconds each side
Behind Head Chest Stretch
30 seconds each arm
Kneeling Lat Stretch
30 seconds each side
Day 3
Day 3: Deadlift Day
Barbell Deadlift
Warmup sets
2 sets5 reps95-135 lbs
Barbell Deadlift
Add 10 lbs each session
5 sets5 reps135-225 lbs4-5 minutes rest
Barbell Full Squat
2-3 second pause at bottom
3 sets5 reps75-135 lbs3 minutes rest
Dumbbell Bench Press
3 sets10 reps30-50 lb dumbbells each90 seconds rest
Pull-up
Lat pulldown if unable
3 setsmax reps2 minutes rest
Hanging Straight Leg Raise
3 sets10 reps60 seconds rest
Side Lying Floor Stretch
30 seconds each leg
Side Lying Floor Stretch
30 seconds each side

Want this program adjusted for your fitness level, goals, or schedule? GymFriend can create a personalized version just for you.

Starting Powerlifting Right

  • Start with the empty bar and add weight slowly. Technique matters more than weight at this stage.
  • Film your lifts. Video feedback is the fastest way to identify and fix technical errors.
  • Learn competition standards: squat depth, bench pause, deadlift lockout. Train to these standards now.
  • Follow the program as written. Linear progression works—don't add exercises or change the structure.
  • Rest 3-5 minutes between heavy sets. Full recovery allows maximum performance.
  • Sleep and eat. Recovery is when you get stronger; training is just the stimulus.

Edit your plan, track progress, and get realtime coaching

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a belt or other equipment?

Not as a beginner. Learn to brace and lift properly without equipment first. After 6-12 months of consistent training, a belt can help once technique is solid.

How quickly will I get stronger?

Beginners can add 5-10 lbs to lower body lifts and 2.5-5 lbs to upper body lifts each week for months. This linear progression is the fastest strength gain period you'll experience.

What if I fail a lift?

Learn to safely fail all three lifts: bail from squats, dump the bar safely on bench, just set it down on deadlift. Failing is normal; doing it safely is essential.

Should I compete?

Competition isn't required, but it's a great experience. Local meets are welcoming to beginners. Consider entering one after 6-12 months of training to experience the sport.

How do I know my one-rep max?

Don't test it frequently as a beginner—it's fatiguing and technique-dependent. Use calculators based on your working sets, or test every 8-12 weeks if you want actual numbers.