Five-time IPF world champion powerlifter Jesus Olivares recently changed his squat approach via a low-bar position. He documented a late-August 2025 training session wherein he lifted a personal record 435 kilograms (959 pounds).
Probably my best low bar rep to date.
—Jesus Olivares
Olivares wore wrist wraps, knee sleeves, and a weight belt when unracking the weight from the squat rack. After establishing his stance, Olivares descended into the hole and ascended nearly as quickly. He slowly returned the barbell to the rack, telling his spotter that the weight “felt pretty good.”
The lift can be seen at the 5:16 point of the video below:
Olivares criticized himself, saying he needs to be more patient as he continues working with the low bar position. He reported his body weight at 393 pounds during this training session.
Afterward, Olivares performed a 412.5-kilogram (909-pound) triple, feeling comfortable getting under the load in a low-bar position. This lift came around two weeks after he had performed a triple with 425 kilograms.
“When you’re adapted to it, it becomes easier to keep your cool. That’s kind of what is happening. I’m adjusting to the new positioning.”
Olivares has not yet reached his IPF world record of 478 kilograms, but he is inching closer with each training session. He has not stepped back on the platform since competing at the 2025 IPF World Classic Championships, where he totaled 1,070 kilograms via a 430-kilogram squat, 270-kilogram bench press, and 370-kilogram deadlift.
Olivares received a wildcard invite at the 2025 Powerlifting America SBD Austin meet in Austin, TX, on November 22.
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Featured Image: @mega.gojira on Instagram
