For any person making the switch from bodybuilder to powerlifter, or are new to the whole fitnessw thing and want to learn the differences between the two sports, then this article is for you. Bodybuilding and powerlifting may sound the same, but they are actually the complete opposite. You are going to learn why they are the opposite and the differences between the two sports in training, dieting, and supplementation.

The bodybuilder`s training routine emphasizes whichever goal the bodybuilder may have. Let`s say that a bodybuilder is getting ready for a contest and is only paying attention to getting toned. His training routine would start consisting of lighter weights just with more repetitions. In powerlifting, it is completely different! In a powerlifting contest, three events (squat, bench press, and deadlift) determine the overall winner. This is why powerlifters use a periodized training program which consists of four phases.

1) Hypertrophy
2) Basic Strength
3) Maximum Strength
4) Transition Speed

Bodybuilders must pay more attention what they eat than what powerlifters do because of the simple fact of bodybuilders keeping fat gain to a minimum. Powerlifters don`t have to go through the twelve weeks of severe dieting that bodybuilders go through, but they still have to keep their food intake high enough to stay in an anabolic state. Powerlifters get to eat more but that can actually be a bad thing for them because they simply have to eat more of the same healthy foods, which can make one feel sick after a week or so. However, bodybuilders and powerlifters diets both emphasize eating to gain muscle but powerlifters don`t have to worry about eating for fat loss.

A bodybuilder`s supplement cupboard would most likely consist of a healthy fat source, multivitamin, and whatever supplements for the goal that they are emphasizing. A powerlifter`s cupboard would contain the same basic supplements but only with more of the muscle building supplements such as creatine, ZMA, protein powder, and weight gainers. You will seldom ever see a powerlifter supplementing with weight loss products unless they are at the point of having too much bodyfat that is having a negative impact on their lifts.

Bodybuilding and powerlifting are both great sports to be involved with, but it is important that you know the differences between the two so that you`re not confused. If you are currently in one of the sports and would like to further educate yourself on the differences between the two, attend a contest and see which one that you like best. You never know, maybe that bodybuilding body is more suited for powerlifting, and vice-versa. You just never know until you try it. Until next time, later.