In a groundbreaking performance, Hildeborg Juvet Hugdal achieved a new world record in the +84-kilogram weight class for equipped bench press. During the 2023 European Powerlifting Federation Equipped Bench Press Championships, Hugdal successfully pressed an impressive 235.5 kilograms (519.1 pounds). This incredible feat not only secured her first place in the competition but also marked the heaviest equipped lift ever achieved by a women’s powerlifter in the history of the International Powerlifting Federation. Hugdal, a seasoned athlete with over 20 years of competitive experience, shows no signs of slowing down as she continues to push boundaries in the world of powerlifting.
Hildeborg Hugdal Sets Equipped Bench Press World Record of 235.5 Kilograms (519.1 Pounds)
On August 6, 2023, Hildeborg Juvet Hugdal recorded a 235.5-kilogram (519.1-pound) equipped bench press during the 2023 European Powerlifting Federation (IPF) Equipped Bench Press Championships in Bordeaux, France. This impressive lift helped Hugdal secure first place in the competition and also set a new world record in the +84-kilogram weight class. Not only is it a remarkable achievement, but it is also the heaviest equipped lift ever performed by a women’s powerlifter in the history of the IPF’s jurisdiction.
To achieve this record-breaking lift, Hugdal wore wrist wraps, a lifting belt, and a single-ply bench press shirt for stability. This new world record surpasses Hugdal’s own mark from the 2022 IPF Equipped World Championships by 5.5 kilograms (12.1 pounds). It is worth noting that the IPF differentiates between single lifts and full-competition lifts in its official record database, and Hugdal’s name appears under both categories. Additionally, as Hugdal recently turned 40, this accomplishment also stands as a Masters 1 (ages 40-49) World Record.
Hugdal’s remarkable feat can be witnessed in a video posted on the official Instagram page of the IPF, showcasing her incredible strength and determination.
Hugdal’s Performance at the Championships
During the 2023 EPF Equipped Bench Press Championships, Hugdal demonstrated exceptional performance throughout the competition. Let’s take a closer look at her three attempts:
- First Attempt: Hugdal started strong with a lift of 222.5 kilograms (491 pounds).
- Second Attempt: Matching her previous world record, Hugdal successfully lifted 230 kilograms (507 pounds).
- Third Attempt: Hugdal pushed herself to new heights and secured the world record with a lift of 235.5 kilograms (519 pounds). This lift not only secured her first place in the competition but also set a new IPF Equipped World Record.
Hugdal’s display of strength and skill during the championships is a testament to her extensive experience in powerlifting and her dedication to the sport.
Hugdal’s Career Achievements
Hildeborg Hugdal has an impressive track record in powerlifting, with over 20 years of competitive experience. Throughout her career, she has earned numerous titles in Norwegian, Danish, European, and World competitions. With over 90 appearances since January 1998, Hugdal has established herself as a force to be reckoned with, losing only 26 times in her prolific career.
2023 IPF Equipped World Championships
As the defending champion in the +84-kilogram weight class, Hugdal is expected to compete in the 2023 IPF Equipped World Championships. The event is scheduled to take place on November 13-18, 2023, in Druskininkai, Lithuania. Powerlifting enthusiasts eagerly anticipate Hugdal’s performance as she aims to defend her title and further solidify her place in the sport’s history.
Upcoming Competitions
Following her record-breaking performance at the EPF Equipped Bench Press Championships, Hugdal’s next competition is set to be the 2023 IPF Equipped World Championships in Druskininkai, Lithuania. Details regarding the specific date and location of the next competition are yet to be announced. However, fans of powerlifting can look forward to witnessing Hugdal’s title defense and witnessing her incredible strength in action once again.
About the IPF
The International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) is an organization dedicated to promoting and governing the sport of powerlifting worldwide. It is responsible for organizing and overseeing international competitions, setting standards and regulations, and maintaining official records. As the IPF governs the sport at the international level, achieving world records under their jurisdiction is a significant accomplishment for any powerlifter.
About Equipped Bench Press
Equipped bench press is a variant of the bench press exercise that involves the use of additional supportive equipment to assist lifters in handling heavier loads. This equipment typically includes bench press shirts, which provide increased stability and assistance in the upward movement of the lift. Equipped bench press allows powerlifters to achieve greater weights and can result in the establishment of new records in the sport.
While equipped bench press offers the advantage of lifting more weight, it also presents unique challenges. Lifters must learn to properly utilize the supportive equipment in order to maximize their performance. This form of bench pressing requires technical skill and specific training methods to optimize the benefits of the equipment.
Equipped bench press differs from raw bench press, which is performed without the use of any supportive equipment. Raw bench press showcases the lifter’s pure strength and is typically favored by those who aim to compete without the assistance of additional equipment.
The Importance of a Bench Press Arch
In powerlifting, one technique that can significantly enhance performance during the bench press is the utilization of a proper bench press arch. A bench press arch refers to the practice of creating an arch in the lifter’s back during the exercise. This technique allows lifters to engage more muscle groups and generate greater force, resulting in increased weight lifted.
The benefits of a bench press arch include improved stability, reduced range of motion, and enhanced power transfer from the lifter to the barbell. By creating a strong arch and maintaining proper form, lifters can optimize their performance and lift heavier weights.
Incline Bench vs. Flat Bench Press
When it comes to chest pressing exercises, two common variations are the incline bench press and the flat bench press. While both exercises target the muscles of the chest, shoulders, and triceps, they differ in terms of the angle of the bench and the specific muscles emphasized.
The incline bench press involves setting the bench at an angle, typically between 30 to 45 degrees. This variation places more emphasis on the upper portion of the chest muscles, known as the clavicular head of the pectoralis major. Additionally, the incline bench press also engages the front deltoids to a greater extent compared to flat bench press.
On the other hand, the flat bench press is performed on a horizontal bench and targets the entire pectoralis major muscle, with a particular focus on the sternal head. This variation also involves the triceps and anterior deltoids to a significant degree.
The choice between incline bench press and flat bench press depends on individual goals and preferences. Inclined bench press may be preferred by those looking to target the upper chest region, while flat bench press allows for overall chest development. Incorporating both variations into a training routine can provide a well-rounded chest workout.
In conclusion, Hildeborg Hugdal’s record-breaking equipped bench press at the 2023 EPF Equipped Bench Press Championships is a testament to her exceptional strength and skill. As the defending champion, she is well on her way to further solidify her dominance in the sport at the upcoming 2023 IPF Equipped World Championships. From the importance of a bench press arch to the differences between incline bench press and flat bench press, powerlifters and enthusiasts have much to gain from studying the techniques and achievements of athletes like Hildeborg Hugdal.