Peak age and performance trajectories in Para powerlifters

Abstract

Objective This study established the age-related performance trajectories in Para powerlifters, thereby presenting valuable information for athlete development. Design Data on athlete date-of-birth, body mass, and weight lifted in competition were analyzed for 2079 athletes between 1994 and 2019. Results Age-related performance trajectories showed that men and women lift their heaviest weights in competition at 36 and 41 years of age, respectively. This correspond to the mean age of competitors in the heaviest bodyweight categories at elite competitions (men 36 years, women 43 years), who were older than competitors in lighter bodyweight categories. It is possible that Para powerlifters ‘move up’ bodyweight categories as they get older and before lifting their heaviest weights in competition. High performing athletes lifted their heaviest weight in competition 2.6 years earlier than lower performing peers, and the best performances in most bodyweight categories were achieved by athletes between 31 and 35 years of age. Conclusions These results suggest that Para powerlifters should reach their peak performance in their early- to mid-thirties and before age-related changes to neural and hormonal processes impact muscular strength. This information can help coaches and athletes evaluate their strategies for achieving success in Para powerlifting.