I read this book in Middle School and I can't for the life of me remember the title, but I can remember what it was about for the most part:

Takes place in the future, the government imposes laws that outlaw people from being different in appearance and skill level. For example, if you are fast or strong or tall, they will put weights on you to weigh you down so that you'll be more slower/shorter and more like the average. Another example, if you are pretty the government issues you "ugly glasses" etc.

Basically, it's all about making sure everyone is equal and punishing the extraordinary.

One of the main characters (a man) decides to literally loose him self of his shackles and weights, breaking them to display his power (if I'm remembering correctly).

Any ideas folks?