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IKLF Kettlebell Lifting Sport Competition Rules

RUSSIAN KETTLEBELLS SPORT SEASON 2020International Kettlebell Lifting Federation Sports

Russian Kettlebell Sport

IKLF Kettlebell Sports brief history

IKLF started as USA Kettlebell Lifting in 2009 funded by Coach Nicolas Rithner in Denver, Colorado USA. The original sport was called American Rules Kettlebell Sport (ARKS). It was directly inspired by the Girevoy rules that were in place at the time in Russia, except that in ARKS men and women could participate on the same events. IKLF was the first kettlebell sport organization in the world to introduce double lifts for women in competition.

In 2011, ARKS gave way to BOLT. Competitions became international and IKLF was created.

Russian Kettlebell Sport brief history and features summary

Russian Kettlebell Sport was created by IKLF in 2019 as a way to cater to IKLF members interested in a competition that limits the number of hands switches allowed to one and in which set downs are not allowed. This reflects the traditional style of competing in Russian Girevoy. However, to keep with the spirit of IKLF sports, and to avoid redundancy, RKS using IKLF volume scoring and men and women can participate on the same type of lifts.

RKS Kettlebell Lifting Sport features three lifts.

These are:

1. Double Clean and Jerk, 2. Double Jerk, 3. Snatch,

RKS Championship events:

• RKS Double Clean and Jerk. No-set-down, Double Clean and Jerk. • RKS Biathlon. No-set-down, Double Jerk, and Snatch. 10 minutes each with a resting period of 10 to 20

minutes in between sets.• Kettlebell Super Total. Results from the BOLT and Russian Kettlebell Sport championships are added up to

obtain the Kettlebell Super Total results.

Russian Kettlebell Sport Rules

RKS Competition Objectives

The lifter has a specific time period in which to lift as many kilos as possible. The winner is determined by who lifted most kilos at the end of the set.

Competition Parameters

1. Competition set duration. A Russian Kettlebell Sport competition set last 10 minute during IKLF championships and, 5 or 10 minute sets for ranking or minor IKLF official competition.

2. Weight of choice. Lifters choose the weight to compete with. Weight is chosen per lift, not per event.3. Weight of choice applies to each lift. A lifter can use multiple weight for each lift within an event. For

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example, an athlete participating in the RKS Biathlon can use 16 kg kettlebells for the double Jerk and 24 kg for the Snatch.

4. No Set downs during competitions are Set-downs are not allowed5. No Multi switches during competition Multi-switches are not allowed6. For a lift to be counted, the lifter must complete each repetition according to the IKLF RKS rules and

standards. This includes proper fixation between repetitions, and sportsmanship, among other things.

Russian Kettlebell Sport Championships Competition Schedule

Lifts Schedule:

1. Double Clean and Jerk

2. Double Jerk

3. Snatch

Competition Schedule by Age Division, Gender and Weight Category:

1. Youth – Women, then Men. Light Weight to Heavy Weight

2. Junior – Women, then Men. Light Weight to Heavy Weight

3. Open – Women, then Men. Light Weight to Heavy Weight

4. Masters – Women, then Men. Light Weight to Heavy Weight

Schedule Changes and Rest Breaks

● Once the lifters are called to the platforms, no schedule changes are allowed.● During Non-Championship Events, lifters are granted at least 5 minutes of rest between

events. ● During Championship Events (State, Nationals/Regionals, Worlds), all lifters must receive

a standard rest period that ranges from 10-to-20 minutes between each of their sets.● A lifter who misses a scheduled heat forfeits it. No refunds will be issued regardless of

the reason for forfeiting.

Russian Kettlebell Sport Scoring

1. Russian Kettlebell Sport competitions use the IKLF volume scoring system. To determine the final score for a set, the total kilos per lift are multiplied by the total number of valid repetitions completed during the attempt. For example,

a. Mary completes a Double Clean and Jerk set for which she used 16 kilo kettlebells.b. Because it’s a double lift we have to fist add up the two kettlebells to obtain the total kilos per

repetition. 16 + 16 = 32 kilosc. Mary completed 100 repetitions. d. To obtain the score we multiply the total kilos per repetition by the total number of repetitions. 32 x

100 = 3200 kilos. e. The score for this Double Clean and Jerk attempt is 3200 kilos.

2. On the RKS Biathlon the result is obtained by adding up the score of two lifts included in the event. For example,

a. John competes in the RKS Biathlon and obtains the following scores:i. Double Jerk: 9,600 kilos

ii. Snatch: 6,400 kilosb. The total score is obtained by adding up the three results: 9,600 + 6,400 = 16,000c. John’s RKS Biathlon score is: 16,000 kilos

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3. Tie Breaker. A competition results in a tie when lifters of the same weight category and age division produce the same amount of total volume. When there is a tie at the end of the competition, the placement will be decided using the following criteria:

a. Kettlebell weight. The lifter using the heaviest kettlebell places ahead.b. Lifter’s body weight. If both lifters compete with kettlebells of the same weight, the lighter body

weightlifter places ahead.

Russian Kettlebell Sport Judge Responsibilities

1. Fair play. The judge must understand the rules clearly to keep the game fair for the participants. 2. Judge-Lifter communication. The judge must check before the start that the lifter can demonstrate fixation

on the lockout position (both overhead and on the rack) This is also an opportunity to find out where the full lockout for the lifter is. i.e. The lifter has restricted movement on her arms and can’t make the arm fully straight.

3. Attention marker. If the lifter’s arm lockout is not straight a marker such as a cone or foldout sign must be place on or by the right front corner of the affected lifter’s platform. This is to communicate to the audience and other teams Fair Play is being upheld.

4. Verify and record on the Athlete’s Sheet the kettlebell weight before the bout starts.5. Fixation. Looks for fixation before a count is given without unnecessarily bogging down the lifter’s pace. 6. Lockout. Makes sure the lifter is reaching the lockout positions in both the Rack (between Jerks) and

overhead (at the end of Jerks and Snatch es).7. Press-out. Look out for press-outs on the Snatch before giving a count.8. Count loud and clear. If no electronic counter available, the judge needs to count loudly so the lifter can

clearly hear each count.9. End the set if the kettlebell(s) or the lift leave the platform. 10. Issue warnings when due. i.e. The lifter talks to his neighboring lifter or coach.11. Reports the results back to the meet director immediately after the attempt ends.

Warnings, No counts, Judge’s Stopped Set, and Disqualification

1. Warnings. These are given by the Judge when the lifter is lifting unsafely, interacting with coaches, teammates, or other competitors during the set, or for misconduct.

2. If the lifter commits a third infraction after receiving two warnings, he/she becomes disqualified.3. Sportsmanship rules violations have a one warning only tolerance level.4. If a lifter is stopped due to safety concerns, this is not a disqualification and all completed repetitions will be

counted towards the lifter’s score.5. Disqualification. A set may be ended for any of the following reasons:

a. Misconduct (see “Sportsmanship”) resulting in disqualification.b. Too many warnings (see “Violations and Warnings”) resulting in disqualification.c. Safety: set termination due to safety is not a disqualification.

6. Violations. It is considered a “Violation” to break any of the rules that apply to a particular event, including “Sportsmanship” rules.

7. Violations may result in “Warnings” or “Disqualification.”8. Sportsmanship. IKLF encourages the pursuit of excellence, camaraderie and mutual respect. The

development of individuals of strong character, who are supportive of the kettlebell sport lifting community – as manifested by good sportsmanship - is paramount to this organization.

a. Lifters, Coaches and Aides are expected to abide by the highest standards of conduct. Tantrums or acts of destruction – such as dumping the kettlebells on the platform – are strictly prohibited.

b. Use of offensive language, signage, or conduct is not permitted during IKLF official, certified, or IKLF sponsored events. Examples of such behavior include

i. use of profane language,ii. insulting or booing,

iii. bullying or threatening, iv. angry yelling at others, or physical assault.

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c. Any such behavior may earn the offender a warning, disqualification of an event’s scores, ban from competing during the remainder of the season, and/or suspension or permanent expulsion from the league, depending on the magnitude of the offense.

d. IKLF’s greatest goal is to foster a safe and supportive family-friendly athletic community. Coaches will be reminded of these rules at the beginning of every competition during debriefing. The Announcer or Event Director will issue a reminder of these rules to spectators, lifters and support staff at the beginning of an event and will follow up as necessary.

9. Single-Attempt Rule. Only one attempt per lift type per meet is allowed. For example, if a lifter competing Snatch isn’t happy with his/her score, he/she may not compete Snatch in another heat of the same meet in hopes of achieving a better score.

10. Failed Attempts. A repetition is considered a “Failed attempt” when a lifter is unable to successfully complete a repetition within the IKLF rules’ standards.

11. A “Failed Attempt” is synonym of “No count.”12. Self-Terminated Attempts. A lifter may voluntarily terminate his/her attempt by leaving the platform during

his/her set prior to the timer counting down to zero.13. Accidentally losing control of the kettlebell(s) is considered a “Self-Terminated Attempt.”

Russian Kettlebell Sport Lifter Responsibilities

1. Fair play. The lifter must understand the rules clearly to keep the game fair for the other participants and the judges. Must be able to demonstrate fixation on the lockout position (both overhead and on the rack)

2. If the lifter overhead lockout is not straight, the lifter must communicate it with the judge before the set starts and request a Attention marker to be place on the right front corner of the platform. The marker has the purpose of communicating this fact to rest of the audience.

3. The lifter must wait for the Judge’s count for the repetition to be considered valid. In turn, judges make sure to keep the count timely so the lifters can sustain a good pace.

4. Sportsmanship. The lifter must uphold IKLF’s sportsmanship standards during sets.5. The lifter must not verbally interact with his/her coach, teammates, or the other competitors during the set.

A warning will be given if this rule is broken.6. The lifter must remain in the designated lifting area (the “platform”) for the duration of the competition set.

Leaving the lifting area terminates the set.7. No one – other than the competing lifters - is allowed in the lifting area during the set. This includes coaches

and assistants. The exception is medical emergencies.8. In Russian Kettlebell Sport stopping to Re-chalk or to drink water is not allowed during the competition.9. Lifters must report to their platform judges at the “Roll Call,” in which lifters’ names and their designated

platforms are announced. If the lifter doesn’t check in with the judge at the “Heat #__Time’s up” call, the attempt is considered forfeited.

10. Setting the kettlebell down terminates the attempt.11. Switching the kettlebell from hand to hand more than once terminates the set.

BOLT rules for clothing and accessories

1. Once the set starts, the lifter may not exchange equipment, apparel, shoes, kettlebell weight, etc. Doing so disqualifies the set.

2. The lifter’s knees and elbows must be visible: long pants or long sleeve shirts must be skin-tight to allow for a clear view of the position of the knees and elbows. Shorts may be loose or fitted provided they end above the knee. The Judge should be able to clearly see whether or not the knees are locked out in Full Body Lockout Position and Rack Lockout Position.

3. Lifting belts are allowed. 4. Clothing specially designed to enhance performance or provide direct support to the elbows or arms is not

allowed. The exception is the lifting belt.5. Wrist and knee bands are allowed.6. Gloves are not allowed.

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7. Taping of hands is allowed only if the lifter has an existing injury to the hand, such as a blister or open wound. The lifter must request approval to tape from the Head Judge or their platform judge prior to their competition set. In this case, liquid bandage products, or Physio tape may be used.

8. Closed-toed shoes must be worn. Bare feet or sandals are not allowed. 

Disputes

1. The judge’s ruling takes precedence. 2. Coaches or lifters cannot engage the judge in conversation or any other manner during or after the set.

Disputes must be taken to the Meet Director. 3. It is recommended that lifters record their competition sets from the front angle for review in the event of

a dispute about warnings, disqualifications, violations or rep count. Without video for review, the platform judge’s ruling stands.

4. The coach has a 10 minutes deadline from the moment the attempt ends to dispute the judging. A video record must me provided to be reviewed.

5. Disputes are limited to one lift dispute (i.e. The Snatch) per competition day.

Age Divisions, Body Weight Classes, Competition Divisions, and Gender

Age Division

Age Division Age Range

Youth I Y1 9

Youth II Y2 10 12

Junior I J1 13 15

Junior II J2 16 18

Open OP 19 49

Master I M1 50 59

Master II M2 60+

Competition Body Weight Classes

Women

Equal or Greater to Less Than

Men

Equal or Greater to Less Than

Light 60 kg Light 70 kg

Middle 60 kg 75 kg Middle 70 kg 85 kg

Heavy 75kg Heavy 85kg

Competition Loads Based on Age Divisions

Men and Women Youth, Junior, Open and Master - All Events

Unlimited

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Competition Division

In World championships the lifters are divided into two competition divisions:

• Amateur• Professional (Pro)

To join the Pro division, the lifter must have previously completed a set at the required minimum weight or greater. This can be accomplished by ranking, or previous IKLF competitions. For lifters new to the league a one-time video submission prior to the competition will be accepted.

Women

Amateur Pro

Men

Greater or Equal to Less Than

< 16 kg ≥ 16 kg < 20 kgt ≥ 20 kg

Age Division and Weight Class Changes Rules

Age Division Changes

1. Lifters may voluntarily change Divisions upward. Open Division lifters may not switch Divisions.

2. Division changes must be requested at or prior to Meet Check-in.

Compulsory Age Division Changes Due to Deserted Age Division.

1. An Age Division with only one participant is considered deserted.2. When an Age Division is deserted the lifter is compulsorily transferred to the next Age

Division with competitors that are closest to the Open Division. 3. Members of the Open Division may not move up or down divisions.4. This rule does not apply to Youth.

Compulsory Weight Class Changes Due To Deserted Weight Class.

1. A Weight Class with only one participant is considered deserted.2. When a Weight Class is deserted, the lifter is compulsorily transferred to the next

Weight Class closest to the Middle weight class.

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IKLF Definitions

Full and Rack Lockouts

For a repetition to be complete and considered valid (a “Count” by the Judge) the lifter must achieve Full Body Lockout.

Full Body Lockout

1. The kettlebell must have stopped moving and the lifter must demonstrate control of it in the overhead position.

2. The arm must be fully extended (elbow extended).3. The arm must be by or behind the lifter’s chin.4. Legs must be fully extended (knee extension).

FFull Lockout K Kettlebell Too Forward A Arm Not Fully Extended L Legs Not Fully Extended

Rack Lockout

Between Jerk repetitions and after each Clean the lifter must reach the Rack Lockout position. Skipping this position will result in a “No Count.”

1. The kettlebell must have stopped moving and the Lifter demonstrate control of it in the Rack position.

2. Legs must be fully extended (knee extension).3. There must be a pause in Rack position prior to performing the Jerk portion of the lift.

Going directly from Clean to a Jerk or from a previous Jerk to a new one is considered “rebounding” and results in a “No Count.”

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ARack Lockout LIncomplete Rack Lockout

IKLF Definitions

Positions

“Lockout” position

The main joint in the area of reference is fully extended and no longer moving. Example “Knees Lockout” means the knees are fully extended.

“Full Body Lockout” position

In this position, the knees, hips, and elbows are fully extended and the shoulder fully flexed (arm vertical to the ground). The kettlebell must be immobilized overhead with the working arm behind the lifter’s chin. All BOLT lift repetitions are considered complete when the lifter reaches the “Full Body Lockout” position.

“Rack Position” and “Rack Lockout”

The kettlebells are held immobile at chest level and the lifter’s knees and hips are fully extended.

“Lockout Fixation”

The kettlebell stops moving in the lockout position before being lowered.

“No Count”

An incomplete repetition results in a “No Count.” Example: Lack of “Lockout” or lack of “Fixation” are reasons why a repetition may be deemed incomplete and labeled as a “No Count.”

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Actions

Press

Moving a hand-held kettlebell upwards from Rack Position by means of elbow extension and flexion of the shoulder joint, ending in Full Body Lockout Position.

Push Press

Moving a hand-held kettlebell upwards from Rack Position by flexing and extending the knees and finishing with a Press, ending in Full Body Lockout Position. Note: The Push Press may or may not include hip and ankle flexion and extension, however it must involve knee flexion and extension.

Snatch

Moving a hand-held kettlebell upwards in one continuous motion without pressing it.

Half Snatch

Lowering a kettlebell to the Rack Position from the Full Body Lockout Position before initiating a new Snatch.

Hand Switch

Exchanging the kettlebell from one hand to the other.

Clean

Moving a hand-held kettlebell to the Rack Lockout from a lower position.

Direct Cast

Transitioning directly from the Full Body Lockout Position to a point below waist level. This is only allowed in Snatch

Gender Definition

The state of being male or female

Gender Determination

1. Gender will be determined by inspecting a legal form of identification such as National Passport or Driver’s License.

2. Transsexual lifters may compete in a specific Gender Category after having completed sex reassignment surgery, being legally recognized as a member of the sex they wish to compete as, and having undergone two years of hormonal therapy (unless they transitioned before puberty).

Lifts Specifications and Rules

RKS Snatch. Lift Specifications and Rules

Equipment:

• RKS: One kettlebell.

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Description:

1. Snatch2. Full Body Lockout3. Casting

Snatch Specific Rules:

1. The Snatch starts with the kettlebell(s) set on the ground.2. At the call of “Start!” The lifter snatches the kettlebell(s) to the Full Body Lockout Position.3. The lift is completed at Full Body Lockout Position. Once this position is reached the lift is considered

complete and a count is given by the Judge.4. Lifters must demonstrate a brief, but distinct pause in the Full Body Lockout Position with the kettlebell(s)

stationary overhead. This is referred to as “Fixation.” The lifter must wait for the Judge to give the count in order for the lift to be complete.

5. Transition between repetitions: Following the Full Body Lockout Position and after the Judge’s count, the Lifter may initiate a new repetition by first lowering the kettlebell(s) directly down (Direct Cast) No Half Snatch technique during RKS events.

6. The lifters can use multiple swings between snatches.7. Dipping or squatting to catch the kettlebell(s) is permitted, but the arms must lock out before the hips and

knees and Full Body Lockout achieved in order for the repetition to be counted.8. Press Out: Pressing is not allowed and will result in a “No Count.9. Multiple switches and set downs not allowed.

RKS Double Jerk. Lift Specifications and Rules

Equipment:

• RKS Double Jerk: Two kettlebells of the same weight.

Definition of the lift sequence:

1. Rack Lockout2. Jerk, Push Press or Press3. Full Lockout

Jerk Specific Rules:

1. RKS Double Jerk start with the kettlebells set on the ground.2. At the call of “Start!” The lifter cleans the kettlebells to the Rack Position and locks out.3. Following the Rack Lockout the lifter jerks, push presses, or presses the kettlebells into the Full Body

Lockout Position.4. The repetition is considered complete at Full Body Lockout Position, once a count is given by the Judge.5. Lifters must demonstrate a brief, but distinct pause in the Full Body Lockout Position with the kettlebells

stationary overhead. This is referred to as “Fixation.” The lifter must wait for the Judge to give the count in order for the lift to be complete.

6. Transition between repetitions: Following Full Body Lockout Position and after the Judge’s count, the lifter must drop the kettlebells into the Rack Position and lock out prior to performing the next Jerk repetition.

7. Multiple switches and set downs not allowed.

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RKS Double Clean and Jerk. Lift Specifications and Rules

Equipment:

• RKS Double Clean & Jerk: Two kettlebells

Definition of the lift sequence:

1. Clean2. Rack Lockout3. Jerk, Push Press or Press4. Full Lockout

Clean and Jerk Specific Rules:

1. The Double Clean & Jerk starts with the kettlebell(s) set on the ground.2. At the call of “Start!” the lifter cleans the kettlebell(s) to the Rack Position and locks out.3. Following the Rack Lockout Position, the lifter jerks, push presses, or presses the kettlebells into the Full

Body Lockout Position.4. The repetition is considered complete at Full Body Lockout Position, once a count is given by the Judge.5. Lifters must demonstrate a brief, but distinct pause in the Full Body Lockout Position with the kettlebell(s)

stationary overhead. This is referred to as “Fixation.” The lifter must wait for the Judge to give the count in order for the repetition to be complete.

6. Transition between repetitions: a. From Full Body Lockout Position to Rack Position: Following a jerk, lifters must drop the kettlebells

into the Rack Position and then cast it out into the next Clean. The lifter may cast the kettlebells out immediately or pause in the Rack Position for as long as desired.

b. From Clean to Jerk: Following the Clean, the lifter must lock out in Rack Position prior to performing the next Jerk.

General Provisions

Equipment and Competition Environment

Kettlebells

1. Standard competition kettlebells or cast-iron kettlebells are allowed at IKLF competitions. However, the following requirements must be met:

o The handles must be smooth and free of edges or sharp areas (chipped paint, ridges or other rough areas).

o The body of the kettlebell must be spherical, smooth and even, with no protrusions that could cause injury to the lifter.

2. Prior to competition, meet directors must ensure that the kettlebells they provide are accurately marked for weight.

3. Kettlebells brought by lifters must be weighed by Meet Officials at Check In prior to the competition or be certified by IKLF Officials.

4. Kettlebell weight cannot differ from standard weights by more than 0.12 kg (0.264 lbs).

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5. Bell weights must be expressed in kilograms for entry into competition spreadsheets. The formula to convert pounds to kilograms is: number of pounds divided by 2.2046 = kilograms.

6. Kettlebell handles must not be coated (with exception of chalk), or polished.

Platform

The competition platform must be:

1. A fixed non-slippery surface that will not shift.

2. A firm even surface that will not give (buffer) during the leg drive. Example: plywood or stall mat on plywood.

3. A delimited lifting area for each lifter competing during a heat of at least 4 x 4 feet (1.2 x 1.2 meters).

4. Each platform must be separated by at least 1 foot (or 30 cm) from the other platforms.

Timing and Counting

1. Kettlebell digital timer-counters are highly recommended but not necessary.2. If kettlebell digital counters are not available, a digital timer must be placed where all

lifters may easily view it from their platforms.3. If kettlebell digital counters are not available, each platform judge must have a thumb

counter to track his/her lifter’s repetitions. 4. A lifter’s sheet must be provided to the judge to record the number of repetitions,

platform number, and his/her name. The judge turns this sheet to the Meet Director at the end of the attempt.

Meet Environment

The Meet Director must make all reasonable efforts to provide an environment conducive to high performance.

The preferred setting would be a place:

1. Isolated from external distractions

2. Well ventilated

3. Well lit

4. Large enough to provide extra room for lifters to warm up and separate themselves from the public and other competitors

5. Not too cold or too hot

6. Accessible restroom facilities

7. Accessible drinking water

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Music

It shall be at the Meet Director’s discretion to play music during IKLF meets.  Should the Meet Director elect to play music during competition, the following guidelines apply:

1. The music shall be in good taste, in accordance with the standards of the lifters and audience;

2. The music shall uphold IKLF’s rules of Sportsmanship, specifically with regards to profanity and vulgarity;

3. The volume of the music shall not interfere with the lifters’ ability to hear instructions and rep counts from the Judges;

4. Meet Directors are encouraged to provide the best meet experience possible for all lifters and spectators.  If music is used, it should enhance, rather than detract from, the competition experience.  Good judgement is encouraged.

Championship Events Video Recording

Hubs for Championship Events (Nationals and Worlds) must provide archived video of their entire event, with a clear view of all platforms. This will better enable IKLF Headquarters to address fairly any disputes concerning repetition counts, terminated sets or sportsmanship violations.

Refund Policies

No refunds will be issued unless the meet is cancelled by IKLF.

Registrations are transferable. A registration spot may be transferred one lifter to another. The transfer must take place before the Heat Schedule is drawn.