Reigning World’s Strongest Man Mitchell Hooper has been training for the upcoming 2023 Shaw Classic, scheduled for Aug. 18-19, 2023, in Loveland, CO. Known for its bias toward static strength events, Hooper’s prep for the Shaw Classic is paying dividends as showcased by his new log press PR of 440 pounds.
On July 31, 2023, Hooper published a video on his YouTube channel that featured some of his Shaw Classic prep, including his new top log press. Watch the session below:
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Mitchell Hooper’s Log Press Personal Best
Hooper progresses from 325 pounds on the log for two reps to 375 pounds for a single rep. In the video, Hooper mistook how much weight was loaded on the log, thinking he lifted more weight than he actually did. “I thought it was 190 [kilograms], but I forgot to put more plates on,” Hooper said. “So I was shocked at how strong I am but…not quite.”
Hooper moved up to 425 pounds, which slips a bit on his sweaty t-shirt. After a switch of shirts and a solid grip, Hooper went for 440 pounds. Despite some initial hiccups, Hooper locked it out, knowing there is still room for improvement.
I go to press up, and the log is still sort of tilting on me. A couple more weeks [of] refining that should be much, much smoother.
Hooper immediately displayed adjustment, scoring another rep at 440 pounds but with better form. He believes four other strongmen will hit the 200-kilogram (440-pound) log at the 2023 Shaw Classic: Trey Mitchell, the Stoltman brothers, and Evan Singleton.
Mitchell Hooper’s Latest Strongman Feats
Hooper was last seen on the strongman stage at the 2023 Strongman Classic, held on July 8 at the Royal Albert Hall in London. He finished third overall, behind runner-up Tom Stoltman and the overall champion, Singleton.
In the video, Hooper was asked how his body felt after the Strongman Classic. “Much, much better,” Hooper responded. “I’ve been working really hard, and the question is just if I’ve had enough time to get to 100 percent.”
Featured image: @mitchellhooper on Instagram
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