Bodybuilder versus Powerlifter

[Off Road]

It isn't suprising to me. In the old days, that's just the way it was. Bodybuilders were strong and strength athletes were well-built. Think of Grimmek, Parks etc.

[5kgLifter]

Originally Posted by BendtheBar

What is more impressive to you...

--A bodybuilder who is able to cross compete in powerlifting and show that bodybuilders aren't weaklings and can build strength with what is considered hypertrophy ranges.

Don't really know of anyone, that has done this. (names? might help)

--A powerlifter who is able to cross compete in bodybuilding and show that strength training also builds muscle.

I've seen pics of this and was amazed that it was possible.

This isn't meant to start a holy war, but I think it's an interesting question.

Which of these 2 paradigms shattered your personal beliefs about lifting? Is one of these more prevalent than the other, meaning are bodybuilders more likely to be strong, or are powerlifters more likely to be muscular?

Or do you believe cross competitors are just freaks?

In addition to the above comments, however, anyone that can cross-compete has trained more than one style and gone all out to do so; I don't think they're freaks, since I reckon we all have it in us.

With a PL, it's about cutting the excess fat, generally...they've just been on a long bulk-strength cycle

[SeventySeven]

Two words.
Layne Norton.

[austin.j.taylor]

I always say this. Show me an elite level powerlifter (in the sub 275 classes) who couldnt go on a 16 week comp diet and look great on stage.

Now show me a bodybuilder who can bulk after a comp for 16 weeks and total elite.

I would guess that the former is more likely to happen than the latter.

Bodybuilding, weightlifting, powerlifting, and strongman are so completely different, yet based on some of the same principles.

[Mr.Silverback]

same iron game, just different disciplines of which all require a certain amount of dedication, science, and fortitude. As with any sport you will have your jerks and idiots...its part of the game. I have mad respect for anyone who even decides to take either disciple to the next level of competing.

[mystro]

Wow i always wondered about this my workout partner use to power lift he's a beast.I've got him by 48lbs and he out lifts me but shorten the rest periods take the reps up 8-12 and he's mine breakfast lunch and dinner, in fact made him bring up his lunch once or twice.But you should see the mature muscle on this guy he could BB any day in fact his bf aint more than 10/11% give or take,he's never done more than 6reps previously.While i never did a one rep max etc both disciplines i say are different and the same i think its ones mindset ultimately that makes the difference.