sick of being fat and weak - tried the whole running thing initially, didn't really see much benefit out of it apart from sore joints. Read a number of articles by Rippetoe and Markos and got inspired.
Might look at PL or strongman once I've dropped some more fat and got my upper body lifts better, but the amount of drama in PL puts me off.
Don't wait to compete I reckon.
competing promotes mental motivation.
I'm not saying go join a fed.
I'm saying in each state there is a PTC gym now.
Each of them have monthly comps for newbies.
no membership, no soft suits..
pay your $30, lift using world class equipment and be judged by qualified judges.
Get advice, tips, make new friends.
There is no drama there..
Before it all starts, you get told the calls to listen for, the rules etc etc.
Seriously, if you are thinking about powerlifting, and you're not broken, do the next one available in your state.
You don't have to buy in to the whole belt, knee wraps, wrist wraps, soft suits blah blah blah.
Rock up in whatever you wear to the gym and try your best.