Bodybuilding vs. Powerlifting Programs — Understanding the Difference

We’re breaking down the differences (and surprising similarities) between the two big strength sports.

When it comes to slinging weight and getting huge, bodybuilding and powerlifting are the two training methods at the forefront of every conversation. In order to excel at either goal, putting as many eggs in the same basket as possible to drive you towards the singular purpose of gaining muscle or strength makes the most sense. 

We want to minimize redundancies and only venture outside of each wheelhouse in so far as to prevent injury or long term health detriments, but does that really need to be the case? To understand the question we must first understand what each training style is and is not – from there, maybe we can discover some overlap that benefits a bodybuilder, powerlifter, or average gymgoer alike.

Bodybuilding is the sport of maximizing muscle hypertrophy with the greatest degree of symmetry, proportion, and just the right level of leanness. A bodybuilding program isn’t just trying to get as huge as possible – it involves a meticulous, honest evaluation of one’s physical characteristics. Selecting the right amount of exercises per muscle group, proper diet and recovery, and practicing specific poses to best show off your physique are all critical.