Throughout history, people have competed against each other in tests of strength through weightlifting. however, only after the formation of the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) in 1920 have such tests and contests been regulated. The Weightlifting Olympic Programme was approved in 8 bodyweight categories for men and 7 categories for women.
As of 1st January 1998, these categories will be contested in all International events in this sport. The 1998 XVI Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia too will feature the 8 bodyweight categories of this sport for men.
