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Get ready to flex your brain muscles and lift your spirits!

Embark on an epic quest to discover the iron-clad nations where powerlifting reigns supreme.

Are you pumped to see which countries crush the competition and hoist the title of powerlifting powerhouses?

Countries where powerlifting is most popular:

  1. United States
  2. Russia
  3. Ukraine
  4. Poland
  5. United Kingdom
  6. Canada
  7. Australia
  8. Brazil
  9. Germany
  10. Sweden
  11. Japan

#1 United States

US Air Force from USA, Georgia Guardsman Breaks State Powerlifting Record and Sets Sights on Armed Forces Records (12369713435), scaling by sportsfoundation.org, CC0 1.0

In the United States, powerlifting enjoys a broad grassroots base and significant competitive platforms like the USAPL and USPA. The inclusiveness of amateur and professional opportunities, along with cultural appreciation for strength sports, fuels its popularity.

American powerlifters are consistently ranked among the best, reflecting the sport’s deep integration into the fabric of American fitness and competitive culture.

#2 Russia

Андрей Александрович ВасильевPerm powerlifters in “Bogatyr” old school gym, scaling by sportsfoundation.org, CC BY-SA 4.0

Powerlifting in Russia has a storied legacy, bolstered by a history of strongman traditions and state-supported athletic programs. The success of Russian lifters on the world stage is reflective of the sport’s embedded status within Russian society.

Facilitated by rigorous coaching and a strong competitive circuit, powerlifting is a prominent pursuit for Russian athletes aspiring to achieve international acclaim.

#3 Ukraine

Мищенко Сергей ЮрьевичBYsyqL, scaling by sportsfoundation.org, CC BY-SA 4.0

Ukraine’s powerlifting scene thrives, supported by a robust coaching system and a culture that values physical strength.

Ukrainian powerlifters frequently dominate international competitions, evidencing the sport’s significance and the high level of talent development. Powerlifting’s status is further reinforced by accessible facilities and national pride in the country’s athletic prowess.

#4 Poland

Artur AndrzejMariusz Pudzianowski5, scaling by sportsfoundation.org, CC BY-SA 3.0

Poland boasts a robust powerlifting environment, with numerous athletes holding world records and titles.

The sport benefits from governmental and private sector support, allowing for the development of strong infrastructure and talent cultivation. Polish powerlifting success is emblematic of its popularity and the emphasis placed on strength sports within the country.

#5 United Kingdom

Senior Airman Tiffany DeNault, Powerlifting at Invictus Games 140914-F-EX835-197, scaling by sportsfoundation.org, CC0 1.0

Powerlifting in the United Kingdom has grown due to its inclusive community and diversity in age and gender participation. The UK boasts numerous competitions and dedicated gyms that foster both amateur and professional lifters.

The sport’s emphasis on strength and technique resonates with the British interest in individual sports achievement, promoting its growth across the country.

#6 Canada

Powerlifting in Canada benefits from a strong culture of fitness and health awareness. The sport appeals to those seeking measurable personal achievements and challenges.

Canadian lifters are supported by a network of local and national competitions that encourage high participation levels, backed by community gyms that emphasize strength training as essential to personal fitness.

#7 Australia

Australian Paralympic Committee261000 – Powerlifting Richard Nicholson 60kg action – 3b – Sydney 2000 match photo, scaling by sportsfoundation.org, CC BY-SA 3.0

Australia’s thriving fitness industry and sporting culture naturally extend to powerlifting, which has seen substantial growth in both recreational and competitive contexts.

The sport is supported by numerous powerlifting federations across the country that organize events and foster community engagement, making it accessible to a wide demographic interested in strength sports.

#8 Brazil

Gallery of Ana Rosa Castellain – FlickrAna Rosa Castellain, scaling by sportsfoundation.org, CC BY 2.0

Brazil’s growing powerlifting community is driven by a broader enthusiasm for fitness and sports.

Brazilian powerlifters gain recognition in South American championships, establishing the country as a rising force in the sport. Powerlifting gyms and events are becoming more prevalent, especially in urban areas, contributing to the sport’s burgeoning popularity in Brazil.

#9 Germany

DacoucouMatthias Steiner, scaling by sportsfoundation.org, CC BY-SA 3.0

Powerlifting in Germany garners a strong following, partly due to the country’s historical emphasis on physical strength and athleticism.

With numerous regional and national competitions, powerlifting is a respected strength sport among German athletes. German powerlifters often rank high in European and World Championships, reflecting the country’s robust training programs and commitment to the sport.

#10 Sweden

Sweden’s powerlifting scene is notable for its inclusiveness and progressive approach to the sport. Known for its encouragement of both male and female lifters, Sweden has produced numerous world-class powerlifters.

The sport’s popularity is also bolstered by the country’s health-conscious culture and governmental support for athletic endeavors, with powerlifting clubs prevalent across the nation.

#11 Japan

Unknown (Asahi Shinbun), Hiroshi Fukuda 1964, scaling by sportsfoundation.org, CC0 1.0

Japan’s interest in powerlifting is rising, with the sport’s technical aspects resonating with the Japanese culture of dedication and mastery.

Powerlifting competitions in Japan attract a dedicated fan base and participants eager to demonstrate their strength and technique. The country has a strong presence in international powerlifting meets, often showcasing disciplined lifters with exceptional technique.

FAQ

Which country is Powerlifting played the most?

Powerlifting is played the most in the United States, where the sport has a strong competitive presence and a large community of lifters across all age groups.

Which country watches Powerlifting the most?

The United States watches Powerlifting the most, with a significant viewership for national and international competitions, and a vibrant culture of strength sports.

Where was Powerlifting originally played?

Powerlifting was originally played in the United States. For an in-depth look at the sport’s origins, here’s a link to our Powerlifting history article. The modern sport evolved from early bodybuilding and weightlifting competitions in the mid-20th century.

Meet Rev, one of our dedicated team members who embodies the essence of sports passion. When he’s not immersed in the world of sports content creation, Rev is busy honing his skills in esports and exploring the great outdoors through activities like hiking and basketball.

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