Powerlifting Coaching Tips: Utilizing Video Analysis for Optimal Performance

Alright, lifters, it’s KeepTough here, and today, we’re talking about one of the most powerful tools in modern powerlifting coaching—video analysis. If you’re serious about refining your technique, breaking through plateaus, and maximizing your performance, you must embrace video power. Seeing your lifts from the right angles allows you to correct mistakes that are impossible to catch in real-time.

The Role of Video Analysis in Powerlifting​

Watching yourself lift in real-time isn’t enough. Video analysis helps identify technique flaws even the most experienced coach might miss. With video, you can track progress over time, making it easier to spot trends, weaknesses, and improvements. Slow-motion reviews enhance athlete understanding, providing clear visuals of bar path, body positioning, and execution.

Best Practices for Video Recording in Powerlifting​

Getting the right angles is crucial for meaningful analysis. For the squat, side and 45-degree rear views are best for checking depth, bar path, and knee tracking. For the bench press, a side view gives the best perspective on bar path and elbow positioning. Deadlifts require a side and front view to assess spinal alignment and hip hinge mechanics.

Using a smartphone with a tripod ensures stable, high-quality recordings. Consistent recording settings and good lighting improve video clarity for better feedback.

Key Areas to Analyze in Powerlifting Lifts​

Each lift has key checkpoints that need to be reviewed. In the squat, focus on bar path, knee tracking, depth, and hip drive. Examine bar path, shoulder positioning, wrist alignment, and lockout strength for the bench press.

The deadlift requires analysis of hip hinge mechanics, spinal alignment, and barbell speed off the floor. Pinpointing these details will help refine the technique and boost efficiency under the bar.

Common Form Issues and How to Address Them​

Lifters often struggle with common form issues that hinder progress. In the squat, forward bar path, knee collapse, and uneven depth are frequent problems. The bench press often suffers from elbow flare, inconsistent bar path, and weak lockout.

Deadlifters struggle with a rounded back, early hip rise, and the bar drifting away from the body. Identifying these issues on video allows for targeted corrective exercises and technique drills that lead to solid improvements.

Performance Tracking and Long-Term Use of Video​

To truly benefit from video analysis, build a video library for each athlete. Tracking bar speed, range of motion, and movement patterns over time allows for data-driven coaching decisions. Setting performance benchmarks using video ensures that progress isn’t just measured by weight on the bar but also by improved technique and efficiency.

Tools and Software for Advanced Video Analysis​

There are plenty of tools available to enhance video analysis. Smartphone apps like Coach’s Eye and Hudl Technique allow slow-motion playback and markup features. More advanced tools like bar speed sensors and motion capture software provide deeper insights.


Integrating video analysis into athlete management systems creates a more structured and effective coaching approach.

Benefits of Combining Video with In-Person Coaching​

Nothing replaces in-person coaching, but a video is the perfect complement. Reinforcing verbal cues with visual feedback strengthens an athlete’s ability to adjust. Reviewing footage together increases athlete awareness, helping them take ownership of their progress. This collaboration builds a stronger coach-athlete relationship and leads to better long-term results.

Frequently Asked Questions​

How often should I record my lifts?

Recording key sets at least once weekly allows consistent feedback without overanalyzing every session.

What’s the best way to compare my videos over time?

Keep a video log organized by date and lift type. Watching past footage alongside current lifts makes it easier to track technical improvements.

Do I need expensive equipment for video analysis?

No. A smartphone and tripod are enough for effective video analysis. While more advanced tools can be helpful, they aren’t necessary for most lifters.