Beijing World Cup hosts groundbreaking Future Gen course in China

The Beijing 2025 World Cup set new milestones for Para powerlifting both on and off the field of play. In addition to the first international World Para Powerlifting (WPPO) event held in the Chinese capital since the 2008 Paralympic Games, the World Cup also hosted the WPPO Future Gen course.   

This foundation course is designed for individuals with little or no prior knowledge or experience in Para powerlifting. It aims to introduce participants to the WPPO Technical Rules and Regulations, their application through the respective officiating roles and the development of related skills. 

The Future Gen course includes both technical and non-technical content and activities, delivered through a combination of online learning and in-person sessions. Participants from China completed both components. 

Future Gen Course Objectives

• To demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of the World Para Powerlifting Technical Rules and Regulations; 

• To understand and develop all necessary skills, abilities and knowledge of the Tier 3 or Tier 4 Technical Official roles, and the specific competition processes related to these roles; 

• To develop, adopt and apply a consistent, accurate and fair officiating approach; 

• To demonstrate teamwork, an understanding of the wider roles completed within the Technical Official’s team and the philosophies, attitudes and behaviours expected of a Technical Official; 

• To demonstrate an understanding of the World Para Powerlifting Classification Rules and Regulations, specifically how the impairment types can impact adjudicating a lift; 

• To correctly, consistently and effectively execute the roles of a Tier 3 Technical Official at WPPO Recognised Competitions; 

• To develop full awareness of all health, safety and risk management elements in competition. 

The in-person portion of the course is designed to be interactive, featuring group discussions and instructor-led activities. The goal is to move away from lecture-style delivery and encourage active participation.  

To support this approach, participants are expected to complete pre-course tasks, including reading materials, watching videos and engaging in activities. This preparation enables them to be in a stronger position to actively participate in the sessions and perform well in evaluations. 

“We could not be more pleased with the Future Gen course in Beijing. Returning to the city that hosted the Paralympic Games 17 years ago allowed us to reflect on how our sport has grown. At the same time, we had the opportunity to connect with those who are at the start of their journey and who will help us shape the future of Para powerlifting” said Khadija Huseynova, WPPO Learning and Development Co-ordinator.  

More information about the World Para Powerlifting learning programmes is available on the WPPO Learning Hub.