A Decade of Evolution in Weightlifting Weight Classes
Over the last 10 years, weightlifting has seen several adjustments to weight classes, reflecting the International Weightlifting Federation's (IWF) commitment to fairness, inclusivity, and alignment with modern athlete demographics.
2018: A Major Overhaul
In 2018, the IWF introduced entirely new weight categories for men and women, replacing long-standing divisions like 69kg for men and 75kg for women. This restructuring aimed to address historical doping concerns and improve the sport's integrity. Notable new categories included men’s 67kg and women’s 76kg. This change brought about 10 weight classes for both male and female.
2020–2024: Olympic Adjustments
For the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, the weightlifting program reduced the number of Olympic classes to seven per gender, while retaining broader categories for world competitions. For Paris 2024, further cuts were made, reducing Olympic classes to five per gender. Notable categories included men's 61kg and 73kg and women's 49kg and 59kg, which were carried over from Tokyo.
2024: The Latest Update
In December 2024, the IWF Executive Board announced new weight classes effective June 2025. These include:
Men: 60kg, 65kg, 71kg, 79kg, 88kg, 98kg, 110kg, +110kg.
Women: 48kg, 53kg, 58kg, 63kg, 69kg, 77kg, 86kg, +86kg.
These changes reflect the IWF's ongoing effort to modernize the sport, balance global competitiveness, and create pathways for athlete development.
Conclusion
Weightlifting's evolving weight categories highlight the sport's dynamic nature and responsiveness to global trends. These changes not only reshape competition but also signal a commitment to transparency and equity in a new era of the sport.
