World Standards established for new IWF bodyweight categories
Following the implementation of new bodyweight categories from June 1, 2025 the IWF is pleased to announce the World Standards for the Snatch, Clean & Jerk and Total in each of those categories.
In order to guarantee these World Standards are consistent, fair and credible, a technical approach was established and rigorous mathematical formulas were used.
As a general principle, valid for all bodyweight categories in both genders and age groups, a 97% ratio was applied to the existing World Records of the previous bodyweight categories.
The rationale behind this value is that the World Standards must remain at the same time high enough to maintain the ‘prestige’ of this top-level performances, but somehow achievable in a reasonable lapse of time.
This fine balance is regarded as the appropriate approach in order to maintain the sport’s integrity while supporting future growth. It is also an understandable and straightforward concept, easy to be explained and enforced within the weightlifting community, media and fans following the Sport.
The complete explanation of the principles as well as the new World Standard charts can be found here
