Angle Analysis in the Arched Technique: Cutoff Points for Maximum Strength in Para Powerlifting

This study aimed to (a) establish the angle linked to the arched technique (ALAT) to indirectly assess the bench-press arch among para powerlifting athletes, (b) determine optimal ALAT cutoff points associated with improved performance, and (c) correlate ALAT with performance outcomes. Twenty-two experienced para powerlifting athletes performed one-repetition-maximum bench-press tests using both the arched technique and the flat technique, with ALAT measured at the initial, sticking point, and final positions. ALAT values were significantly higher in arched technique than in flat technique at the initial position (p ≤ .05), and total load was significantly greater in arched technique (p ≤ .05). ALAT showed strong correlations with total load (r = .66-.76, p ≤ .05), supporting its reliability. Cutoff points ranging from 7.8% to 8.8% in ALAT differences corresponded to 1.5%-4.0% increases in load. These findings highlight the importance of maintaining a minimum arch angle during the lift to optimize bench-press performance in para powerlifting.