1. The lifter shall face the front of the platform. The bar shall be held horizontally across the shoulders

2. After removing the bar from the racks, the lifter must move backwards to establish the starting position on his/her own. When the lifter is motionless, erect with knees locked, and the bar properly positioned the Chief Referee will give the signal to begin the lift. The signal shall consist of a downward movement of the arm and the audible command “Squat”.

3. Upon receiving the Chief Referee’s signal, the lifter must bend the knees and lower the body until the top surface of the legs at the hip joint is lower than the top of the knees.

4. The lifter must recover at will to an upright position with the knees locked. When the lifter is motionless (in the apparent final position) the Head Referee will give the signal to rack the bar.

5. The signal to rack the bar will consist of a backward motion of the arm and the audible command “Rack”. The lifter must then move forward and return the bar to the racks

Causes for Disqualification

1. Failure to observe the Chief Referee’s signals at the commencement or completion of a lift.

2. Double bouncing at the bottom of the lift, or any downward movement during the ascent.

3. Failure to assume an upright position with the knees locked at the commencement or completion of the lift

4. Stepping backward or forward although lateral movement of the sole and rocking the feet between the ball and heel is permitted.

5. Failure to bend the knees and lower the body until the top surface of the legs at the hip joint is lower than the top of the knees, as in the diagram.

6. Any movement of the bar on the back more than the diameter / thickness of the bar below its starting position.

7. Contact with the bar or the lifter by the spotter / loaders between the | Chief Referee’s signals in order to make the lift easier.

8. Contact of the elbows or upper arms with the legs. Slight contact is permitted if there is no supporting that might aid the lifter.

9. Any dropping or dumping of the bar after completion of the lift.

10. Failure to comply with any of the items outlined under Rules of Performance for the squat.