The rules to double deadlift may vary from federation to federation, as they will be based off rules of the raw deadlift. However, there are key elements to consider...
It is highly recommended both lifters are approximately equal in hip height OR bar lockout height. If one lifter is smaller than the other, the majority of the bar load will shift onto that lifter, potentially injuring that lifter. It is the right of the federation/judge to disqualify a team if there is the chance of serious injury.
A good deadlift requires the lifter to raise the bar into a lockout position before the call of "Down", without the bar hitching or dropping in its ascent. This must be done within a specific clocked time. A lifter is given 3 lifts, unless disqualified.
A good double deadlift has the same requirements.
A competition bar is required per federation rules; it is the director's decision to allow a long bar into competition, if available.
While it is not required, a competition grade belt is recommended. Most federations require shin protection or long socks. Flat soled shoes are recommended but not required, although some federations disallow bare feet or socks(no shoes).
The typical competition level of judges apply to a Double Deadlift, with side judges focusing on the lifter closest to them. It is recommended to have a back spotter assigned to each lifter for maximum safety.
If an event chooses to score and rank lifts, it is recommended to use the criteria developed for a federation for the Deadlift, wherein Division, Weight, and Sex are defined. Weigh-ins are required.
In a perfect world, both lifters are in the same Division and Class. However, in the case of a mismatch Weight class, it is recommended the team lift in the higher weight class of the two lifters.
If lifters are in different Divisions, it is recommended they lift in an Open division.
Scoring and ranking are based on the handicap of the lighter lifter (divided the lift weight by 2 and apply that to lightest lifter. The team with the highest weight combined with the lightest lifter scores and ranks).
In the case of a tie, it is the team with the lightest lifter's actual weight at weigh-in that breaks the tie (lightest at weigh-in wins).
Not all lifters want to be ranked; many just want to have fun!
Creating both a Recreational and Competitive category allows versatility at events. "Recreational" is basically defined as mixed Weight, Age, and Sex, with the option of costumes and "flare" (as long as safety precautions are in place on the platform). This opens things up to lifters that may otherwise never try out the sport.
"Competitive" reflects a federation's classifications for ranked and scored lifting. This is a great opportunity for creating records based on Weight class, Age Divisions, and Sex categories. Advanced and experienced lifters and teams would likely compete in this category.
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