Go Heavy has a thread looking at whether IPF Rule 10.11 is a fair one or merely an attempt by the IPF to control its lifters. Rule 10.11 prohibits IPF lifters from competing against other powerlifters who've been banned by the IPF. It's the rule whose violation caused Brian Siders' suspension. Does the rule make sense? Does its application in the Siders case result in any punishment to Ed Coan? If the IPF really wants to control its lifters as some in the thread assert, why doesn't it prohibit lifters from competing in any untested meet?

I have difficulty in accepting the arrogance that the IPF has regarding their rule punishing lifters who compete "OUTSIDE" of their administrative boundaries. Why should it be important what someone does in another Fed..?? This seems to be overstepping their authority.It also smacks of fascism...perform and behave as we say wherever you are or we'll get you!

Here are the official results from last weekends Kings of the Bench Competition at Mr. Olympia in Las Vegas, Nevada. Prizes totalled $2,600 in cash and $2,150 in gift certificates from sponsors like At Large Nutrition. Lightweight Division (165 Pounds) 1st(tie) Joe Luther 1. 385 2. 405 3. 420 1st(tie) Joe Mazza 1. 400 2. 420 3. 435 (missed) 4. 435 (missed)

Tony Gentilcore discusses a number of methods of soft tissue work using only a tennis ball at T-Nation. Check out the article to get an idea of the unlimited number of ways a tennis ball can help relieve muscle pain.

However, as with resistance or endurance training, you also need some form of progression when it comes to soft tissue work. You wouldn't recommend that someone continue to perform three sets of ten for every exercise, or do nothing but walk on the treadmill for a straight year to make progress with their physique, right? So why would foam rolling be any different? While it's a fantastic modality, I find that trainees come to a point where they need something a bit more "focused."

As one might expect, there's been a fair amount of discussion around the powerlifting boards about the suspension of Brian Siders by the IPF for competing at the USPF Senior Nationals, where another suspended lifter, Ed Coan, was also competing. Forum Discussion FI Go Heavy Go Heavy APF Outlaws USAPL forum USAPL forum

I don't think 'retarded' is quite adequate. I can't think of a word to describe the level of ridiculousness and pettiness of the IPF. Brian should learn how to use multiply gear and then come dominate the WPO!!

Jamie Emberley offers his advice to newer powerlifters on the best way to warmup on meet day. His post is prompted by recently seeing some doing far too much work in the warmup room.

This is an issue that just has to be addressed after seeing what goes on in the warmup room, specifically down at provincials this weekend. WAY TOO MUCH!!!

Barry Williams returns with an interview with female powerlifting superstar Laura Phelps. On the lack of support from other powerlifters:

Yes, I definitely catch a lot of heat over my squats. I really cannot say why people feel they have to hate instead of support, simply because my brain does not work that way! LOL! I love this sport, and I appreciate every lifter, no matter what federation, what rules, how many ply's, etc. What boggles my mind is when people personally attack the lifter rather than the lift itself, or when they judge the person's character based off of a lift that was passed that they feel was a bad lift. That's when it goes too far.

IPF Doping Hearing Panel & Medical Committee member Chris Calvano offers his thoughts on the IPF rule changes proposal at the USAPL forum. Interestingly, he states the Medical Committee is prepared to draft a statement regarding gear safety. He hints that it will be along the lines that both too much gear and not enough gear will be considered medically unsafe.