Power lifting competitions are comprised of three lifts: squat, bench press, and dead lift. Competitors are put into classes that are determined by different factors like the experience and age and are asked to lift the maximum achievable weight for each of the aforementioned lifts. Training for this type of competition consists of building strength, improving technique and working up to 1 rep max weight for each lift.

On the other hand, bodybuilders are judged on their appearance. More care needs to be taken on how their body looks in certain poses. Training for bodybuilding competitions will be more isolated, working on one muscle or muscle group at a time to achieve maximum definition. Other preparations include body hair removal and tanning to better show off the definition.

Both power lifters and bodybuilders should stick to a healthy diet. It is important to eat enough calories each a day to optimize muscle building while at the same time sticking to the right foods. Bad carbohydrates like refined grains and fatty fried foods should be avoided. A better choice is whole grains, vegetables, fruit, nuts and seeds and of course a lean source of protein. Power lifting, is not a measure of how much body fat you have or definition. Therefore, weight only becomes important when it comes to what weight class or category you are put in. Losing the body fat, however will promote a healthier lifestyle completely.

A comprehensive gym routine or schedule should be followed when practicing either power lifting or bodybuilding. You will need time to rest so that your muscles can recover and build up between workouts. Also think about taking a good week off every ten to twelve weeks. This is a method recommended by many different trainers as it is found to be a great benefit by reducing stress and allowing your body to breathe. A rest week will also help keep you dedicated to your sport.