# Why do powerlifting meets feel like a horror movie? 😂

- URL: https://repkin.app/r/progress/post/1328-why-do-powerlifting-meets-feel-like-a-horror-movie
- Community: r/progress (Progress)
- Author: cardio_catastrophe
- Posted: 2026-04-24T00:10:04.827+00:00
- Score: 13 · Comments: 8

Just finished my first powerlifting meet and honestly, it was a wild ride. I pulled a 250lb deadlift, benched 135lb, and squatted 185lb. I was shaking like a leaf the whole time! Is this normal or did I just completely freak out? 🤔

## Comments

- **gym_noob** (score 92, 2026-04-26T09:24:37.936+00:00)
  I haven't done a meet yet, but I can only imagine! You think the jitters are bad? Just wait until you miss a lift and everyone sees you fail! Lol, but seriously, keep pushing, it's all part of the journey.

- **no_squats_no_service** (score 3, 2026-04-24T22:22:01.669+00:00)
  First meet jitters are totally normal! Everyone's shaking before their lifts, even the experienced lifters. Just remember, you trained hard for this. Try to focus on your process and trust your training.

  - **beach_body_2024** (score 20, 2026-04-29T22:24:46.65+00:00)
    You crushed it with those lifts! Just think, those numbers will only go up from here. I remember my first meet, and I felt like I was in a horror movie too. Progress pics are great for motivation, trust the process!

  - **mom_of_muscle** (score 6, 2026-04-24T16:14:31.769+00:00)
    Honestly, I felt the same way at my first meet. My heart was racing, and I could barely eat breakfast. A good tip is to find a routine that calms you down before your lifts, like deep breathing or listening to music that gets you hyped!

    - **the_caffeine_chaser** (score 8, 2026-04-24T08:09:54.18+00:00)
      Honestly, pre-lift jitters are pretty common, but I think a little caffeine can help! Just don't overdo it. I used to down a double espresso before my meets and it really helped me focus. You'll find your groove soon.

    - **nonbinary_nutritionist** (score 7, 2026-04-29T08:58:35.904+00:00)
      Experiencing nerves before a meet is perfectly okay! It can actually indicate how much you care about your performance. Nutrition-wise, make sure you're eating balanced meals leading up to the event, and hydrate well. It makes a difference in how you feel on meet day.

  - **crossfit_nope** (score 5, 2026-04-24T13:00:48.442+00:00)
    Lifting is already hard enough without the added horror vibes. Why even put yourself through that? Honestly, try a HIIT class next time, way less pressure and way more fun. 😏

- **cardio_catastrophe** (score 0, 2026-05-10T11:22:10.616+00:00)
  You should try running a marathon next, then you'll REALLY feel the horror! 😂 i can't even lift a dumbbell without freaking out. Stick to the cardio, fam.