Trolling in Powerlifting: An Examination of Behaviour and Its Impact. Understanding the Culture and Consequences of Trolls in Strength Sports

Powerlifting, a sport celebrated for its raw displays of strength, discipline, and camaraderie, has not been immune to the rise of internet culture and, with it, the phenomenon of trolling. While most enthusiasts contribute positively to the sport, there exists a subset of individuals commonly referred to as “trolls”. These are people who, either online or in person, engage in behaviours intended to provoke, ridicule, or disrupt the powerlifting community. This document explores the phenomenon of trolling within powerlifting, the forms it takes, its motivations, and its impact on the sport and its participants.

Understanding Trolling in the Powerlifting Community

Trolling is a term originating from early internet forums, describing actions meant to elicit strong, negative emotional reactions from others. In powerlifting, trolling manifests uniquely due to the sport’s inherent competitive nature and the strong personalities it attracts. Trolls in this context might post inflammatory comments on social media, mock lifters’ form or achievements, or start contentious debates over training methodologies and the use of equipment. Unlike friendly banter or constructive criticism, trolling is characterised by its intent to degrade, annoy, or derail meaningful discussion.

Common Venues for Trolling

·      Social Media Platforms: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube are rife with comment sections where trolls target both elite athletes and novices alike.

·      Online Powerlifting Forums: Dedicated forums or subreddits can sometimes devolve into spaces where trolling overshadows genuine conversation.

·      In-Person Events: While less common than online trolling, some individuals may engage in mocking or disruptive behaviour at meets or training sessions.

Forms of Trolling in Powerlifting

Trolling in powerlifting can take many forms, including:

·      Mocking Lifter Technique: Trolls often scrutinise videos for perceived technical flaws, making exaggerated or sarcastic remarks.

·      Stirring Debates Over Rules or Records: Disputing the legitimacy of records or rule interpretations, sometimes without evidence, to provoke athletes or federations.

·      Equipment and Drug Use Arguments: Fueling the never-ending debates over raw vs. equipped lifting or natural vs. enhanced status, often resorting to personal attacks.

·      Spreading Misinformation: Deliberately sharing false training tips or nutritional advice to mislead newcomers.

·      Targeting Individuals: Focusing trolling efforts on specific lifters, coaches, or organisations for personal reasons or out of jealousy.

Motivations Behind Trolling

Understanding why people troll in powerlifting requires a look at both individual psychology and the sport’s culture:

·      Seeking Attention: Trolls often crave the spotlight and will say outrageous things to garner reactions.

·      Insecurity and Envy: Some trolls may feel inadequate about their own lifting or physiques, leading them to belittle others to feel superior.

·      Desire for Controversy: Certain individuals thrive on chaos and discord, finding amusement in stirring up arguments.

·      Anonymity and Distance: The internet provides a shield for cruelty, enabling people to act in ways they never would in person.

·      Lack of Understanding: Misinterpretation of jokes or sarcasm can sometimes accidentally result in what others perceive as trolling.

The Effects of Trolling on the Powerlifting Community

Trolling, especially when pervasive, can have significant negative impacts:

·      Discouragement and Dropout: Novice lifters, in particular, may feel unwelcome or ridiculed, prompting them to abandon the sport.

·      Culture of Negativity: Persistent trolling can foster a toxic environment, overshadowing the supportive and uplifting aspects of powerlifting.

·      Spread of Misinformation: When trolls pose as experts, they can inadvertently steer beginners down unproductive or even dangerous paths.

·      Reputational Damage: Athletes and organisations unfairly targeted by trolls may suffer unnecessary harm to their reputations.

·      Divisive Debates: Endless disputes over equipment, drug testing, or federation legitimacy may fracture the community and distract from the spirit of competition.

Examples of Trolling in Powerlifting

Though it would be inappropriate to single out specific individuals, several high-profile incidents have highlighted the issue, such as:

·      The viral spread of “fail” compilations, often stripped of context and designed to mock lifters’ mistakes.

·      Campaigns on forums targeting particular athletes over supposed rule infractions, sometimes based on doctored footage or misinformation.

·      Comments sections erupting in arguments over PED accusations, frequently without evidence, tarnishing careers and sowing distrust.

Responses to Trolling

The powerlifting community has developed several strategies to combat trolling:

·      Moderation: Social media managers and forum moderators are increasingly vigilant, deleting abusive posts and banning chronic trolls.

·      Community Initiatives: Campaigns promoting positivity, such as “Lift Each Other Up,” encourage lifters to support one another and ignore trolls.

·      Education: Prominent coaches and athletes share advice on distinguishing between constructive criticism and trolling, empowering newcomers.

·      Focusing on Achievement: Lifters are urged to celebrate progress and milestones, reinforcing a sense of belonging that trolls cannot easily undermine.

·      Please report to the Authorities.

How to Spot and Deal with Trolls

Recognising trolls can help protect yourself and others:

·      Look for patterns—trolls often repeat negative or inflammatory remarks across different posts or platforms.

·      Don’t engage—responding only fuels the fire and encourages further trolling.

·      Report and block—most platforms allow you to report inappropriate behaviour and block users.

·      Seek support—if you’re targeted, reach out to fellow lifters or moderators for help and reassurance.

Fostering a Positive Powerlifting Environment

Despite the presence of trolls, the majority of the powerlifting community remains supportive and encouraging. By focusing on mutual respect, celebrating diversity, and prioritising the well-being of all participants, the sport can continue to thrive. Lifters and coaches alike can set examples by addressing trolling when it appears, promoting kindness, and creating inclusive spaces both online and at events.

In conclusion, while trolls in powerlifting can be disruptive, they are far from defining the sport. By understanding their tactics and motivations, and by reinforcing a positive culture, the community can ensure powerlifting remains a welcoming and rewarding pursuit for everyone—regardless of experience, background, or ability.

So in conclusion if you know a person that trolls, please find them help in dealing with their issues and inadequacies.

Let’s stand together as a community.

Author

Lady P Griffiths

BPF / WPU