Powerlifting United to Introduce New Lighting System for Meets

It is no longer only about red and white lights.

Last updated on July 23rd, 2025

Powerlifting United (PLU) announced the introduction of a new color code system for their upcoming meets, starting with the PLU Nationals in Teaneck, NJ, on July 25-27.

The traditional red and white lights will be in place to confirm bad or good attempts, but the red lights will be accompanied by a red, blue, or yellow “flag” underneath the light to verify why the red light was issued. 

Depending on whether a squat, bench press, or deadlift is being performed, each color represents various reasons for a red light. Red represents technique flaws, blue represents downward motion or soft stances at the beginning or end of the movement, and yellow covers all other flaws during an attempt.

The announcement was made on the PLU Instagram page with PLU Oregon state chair Britt Holloway explaining the meaning of each color.  A more detailed breakdown is below:

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Squat

• Red — Insufficient depth, stepping or lateral foot movement between the squat and rack commands.
• Blue — Downward motion during lift or soft start or end positioning.
• Yellow – Other infractions not covered by red or blue lights.

Bench Press

• Red — Buttocks off bench, bar does not touch torso or touches weight belt.
• Blue — Downward motion during press, soft start, or end positioning.
• Yellow — Other infractions not covered by red or blue lights.

Deadlift

• Red — Bar supported on thighs during attempt (possible hitching), stepping during attempt.
• Blue — Downward movement during attempt, soft knees, hips, or shoulders at lockout.
• Yellow — Other infractions not covered by red or blue lights.

This is believed to be the first time that an organization will institute a format like this at its meets. It could clarify to the lifter why a lift was red-lighted while maintaining the pace of the meet.

Feedback on the announcement was mostly positive, but some want to see how the system works during the meet before expressing support.

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Featured Image: @powerlifting.united on Instagram