Equipped or Unequipped: That is the question

There is an ongoing debate in powerlifting about the use of equipment. Equipment is defined (at least according to the federation in which I compete) as a squat suit, knee wraps, and a bench press shirt. Most people start their powerlifting careers as an unequipped lifter, then move on to using equipment.

Some people, however, feel that one is superior to the other. From what I've seen, the equipped camp thinks that the equipment just helps the lifter get to his or her maximum potential. They also tout that it ensures the longevity of the lifter. The unequipped camp feels that it is not really the person lifting the weight if he or she uses equipment.

Now, you don't walk into a gym and see a squat suit lifting weights. And obviously, if the federation has a class for equipped and a separate class for unequipped, it's not unfair.

To me, however, equipment seems like an unnecessary addition. If I put a spring on my chest, I would definitely be able to bench press more weight. Some shirts won't even let your arms descend unless you are handling over 400 lbs. Further, one of the most complained about pains later in life (especially for men), is lower back pain. Now, if I can squat 475 lbs. unequipped and 600 lbs. equipped that's just great. However, the added equipment doesn't protect your back. The same belt is worn for both. My point is that a person is exposing themselves to a greater risk of injury by lifting more weight with the equipment. To me, it seems artificial.

This can be likened to American football versus rugby. Both are very physical sports. Football uses pads and helmets and has a corresponding increase in violence. I don't have the statistics, but I seriously doubt that rugby players fare worse in the long run for not having the additional equipment that football players do. This, I feel, is because they play within their abilities more and keep their head in it (i.e. not trying to kill each other for the fun of it).

I want to lift heavy weights as much as the next guy (or gal, for that matter), but I don't feel that I'm doing all the work if I use gear. So, at least for now, I'm going to remain unequipped.

I welcome any comments from anyone!