PARALYMPIC powerlifting also known as para POWERLIFTING and para lifting is an adaptation of the sport of powerlifting for athletes with DISabilities The ONLY discipline in Paralympic powerlifting is the bench press The sport is governed by International Paralympic Committee World Para Powerlifting and is open to any1 with MINIMUM level of disability who can extend their arms within 20° of FULL extension during a lift POWERLIFTING has been competed at the SUMMER paralympics since 1984