Tag: larry wheels
Larry Wheels Smokes 495-lb (224.5-kg) Bench Press For Ten Reps In Training
Larry Wheels recently got diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis, which is a condition often caused by overtraining and is known to be fatal in some cases. However, he has seemingly already recovered, as he is back in the gym performing some mind-blowing feats of strength. In the recent case, Larry went back to one of his most […]
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‘I Was at Risk of Kidney Failure’: Larry Wheels Shares Recovery Update after Rhabdo Diagnosis
Powerlifting sensation Larry Wheels has faced several health challenges over the course of his career. The fitness influencer was diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis last week. In a recent video uploaded on YouTube, Wheels opened up about his experience before finding out he got rhabdo and shared recovery updates. Larry Wheels carved his own space in the […]
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Larry Wheels Hospitalized With Rhabdomyolysis
Larry Wheels has been going through a lot lately, focusing on developing his strength, building an incredible physique, and as of recently, launching his first public gym. Unfortunately, all the time Larry invested in his gym, aiming to better himself, led to a significant setback. In fact, it was even something that could develop into a fatal hazard. On July 25th, Larry shared a photo of himself lying in a hospital bed, with IV’s connected to his veins. Furthermore, in the post’s caption, Larry disclosed that he has been diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis, a rare condition that has been fatal in some cases.
“I fked around and got Rhabdo. light headed af”
Rhabdomyolysis is most often caused by overtraining, and its symptoms are similar to muscle inflammation, but often develop into much more severe pains. Basically, when a person suffers from rhabdomyolysis, their injured muscles can break down, releasing the Myoglobin protein into the bloodstream.
In turn, Myoglobin can damage the kidneys, affecting their work rate or potentially even causing kidney failure. In the worst cases, rhabdomyolysis has even caused the deaths of people who had it.
The symptoms of rhabdomyolysis include weakness, muscle pain, darkening of the urine, and lightheadedness. However, rhabdo is curable, so Larry Wheels should be back to his best after some treatments.
Related: Larry Wheels Cranks Out 405 Lbs Bench Press In A Joint Training Session With Stefi Cohen
Interestingly, rhabdo is a fairly rare disease, as approximately 26,000 cases are reported in the USA each year. So, it is something that should be paid attention to, but not overly scared of it.
CrossFit and UFC athletes are some of the most frequent people who get rhabdo due to their highly-intense training sessions. So, as a result of his intense gym efforts, Larry Wheels ended up with rhabdomyolysis. However, it does not come as a huge surprise, since he has been going all out in preparation for his Classic Bodybuilding debut. He recently revealed what exactly attracted him to this division of bodybuilding as well.
In preparation for his Classic Bodybuilding debut, Larry Wheels partnered up with William Bonac in order to get some posing tips. Larry then also revealed that his coach assured him that nothing apart from TRT would be needed for him to be competitive in the Classic Bodybuilding division. This seemed to be correct, as Larry’s physique looked incredible in every update that he shared.
It is a known fact by now that Larry Wheels has stopped using PEDs and Steroids. However, since then, he has looked like a brand new person. He began looking younger and healthier, while also slimming down to an incredibly shredded physique. His strength has also been impressive, as Larry tested his limits in a powerlifting mock meet.
The fact that he is enjoying his current fitness journey makes it obvious that he will continue to enjoy it after he recovers from rhabdomyolysis.
Related: Larry Wheels Sporting Crazy Bicep Peak in Classic Physique Posing Before Big Debut
It is currently not clear how rhabdomyolysis will affect Larry Wheels’ plans moving forward, but he will most likely provide a detailed update when he is back to full health. Until then, we wish Larry a quick recovery from the unfortunate situation that he has found himself in.
Published: 26 July, 2023 | 10:37 AM EDT
Larry Wheels Announces Launch of His First ‘No Budget’ Public Gym
Fitness sensation Larry Wheels is known for his crazy feats of strength and impressive muscular build. While he’s gearing up for a move to bodybuilding, he has experience in multiple strength-based sports, including strongman, powerlifting, and arm wrestling. In a recent video uploaded on YouTube, Wheels announced the launch of his first public gym.
Larry Wheels first rose to prominence for his unique blend of insane strength and his aesthetic look in powerlifting. He set the World Record of 2,275 lbs on the squat, bench, and deadlift without wraps in the 275-lb weight category, which stood till last month. Besides his extraordinary strength, he displays a jacked physique more reminiscent of a competitive bodybuilder. His potential in bodybuilding was evident from the start as he scored gold in his debut at the NPC Gold Coast Muscle Classic in Feb. 2018.
Wheels decided to discontinue steroids after suffering a back injury in Aug. 2022. Having been a nearly decade-long user, he couldn’t go off gear instantly and switched to TRT (testosterone replacement therapy) exclusively. He declared his ambitions to move to bodybuilding and make a splash in the Classic Physique division earlier this year.
Following the conclusion of the 2023 Arnold Classic, Wheels enlisted the help of Men’s Open standouts William Bonac and Andrew Jacked to work on his posing skills ahead of the highly anticipated debut four months ago. He followed up with a ripped physique update showing off his lean frame.
Wheels believes he can be competitive in the Classic Physique division using only TRT. He left the fans stunned with a shredded physique update boasting his unreal bicep peak in a posing session two months ago. Then, he crushed a heavy set of 150-lb incline dumbbell shoulder presses along with an impressive physique update.
Larry Wheels gave fans a look into his preparations for his Classic Physique debut with a lean physique update last month. He also smashed past a taxing set of 150-lb incline dumbbell bench press for 25 reps. Additionally, Wheels teamed up with powerlifting legend CT Fletcher for a brutal round of 500-pound paused bench press workout two weeks ago.
Larry Wheels Announces Launch of His First Public Gym
In a recent YouTube video, Larry Wheels announced the launch of his first public gym.
Wheels partnered with coach Ryan Benson of Team Zero Gravity for the project. The name of the gym is ‘OG Gym’ as in One Generation, with a focus on blending bodybuilding and powerlifting.
The main gym area had a 35-ft tall ceiling and 8,000-9,000 square feet with an additional area outside the dome structure of 6,000 square feet bringing the total space to roughly 14,100 square feet. They are waiting for the current tenant’s lease to end to start building it up according to their needs. They will demolish most of the space and start with everything brand new.
There’s a second-floor upper-level area reserved as the cardio room. Other areas were planned for posing, merchandise, recovery (cold plunge, sauna), and a meal prep service.
They don’t have a budget and are willing to spend as much as needed to build the most epic gym. Benson estimated the renovation would cost about $2 million and $1 million for equipment.
“It was always a dream of mine to open a gym,” said Wheels. “However, when I contacted people that have opened gyms, I didn’t hear the most inspiring stories. I usually heard of gyms struggling with members, struggling to make ends meet, and for a long time I was really apprehensive because I didn’t hear any success stories. All I heard was it’s not a good idea, it’s a low profit margin business, don’t do it.”
“We want the $5 million gym,” said Benson.
Larry Wheels crushed a massive 405-pound bench press in a collaborative training session with Stefi Cohen last week. He opened up on his reasons for preferring the Classic Physique division over the Men’s Open, which hosts some of the freakiest mass monsters in the world.
Wheels’ latest acquisition is an exciting idea and many fans are looking forward to visiting it.
RELATED: 73-Year-Old Strongman Legend Beats Larry Wheels In Grip Strength: “Honestly, Blown Away”
You can watch the full video below.
Published: 13 July, 2023 | 11:31 PM EDT
Larry Wheels On Not Doing ‘Extreme’ Men’s Open: ‘Classic Physique Feels Like an Art Form’
Multi-talented Larry Wheels is a popular figure in the fitness space with experience competing in multiple strength-based sports. He is gearing up for a move to bodybuilding in the Classic Physique division. In a recent post made on Instagram, Wheels revealed why he didn’t choose the Men’s Open category.
Larry Wheels first gained attention for his incredible feats of strength as a budding powerlifting sensation in 2017. He set the World Record of 2,275 pounds on the squat, bench, and deadlift without wraps in the 275-pound weight class, a record that was broken by Zac Meyers last month. In 2018, he made his amateur bodybuilding debut at the NPC Gold Coast Muscle Classic and scored gold overall.
Following a back injury, Wheels decided to quit steroids in August 2022. He chose to get on TRT (testosterone replacement therapy) as he slowly cut down on other performance-enhancing drugs. He revealed he’d switch to the Classic Physique division earlier this year. Open sensation Andrew Jacked and William Bonac partnered with Wheels to help him sharpen his posing abilities after the conclusion of the 2023 Arnold Classic.
Wheels left the fans stunned with a shredded physique update in prep for his highly awaited move to the Classic Physique division four months ago. He believes he’s already packing enough muscle on his massive frame and could hold his own with the use of TRT alone. Wheels showed off his insane bicep peak in an impressive physique update and posing session ahead of the transition.
The 28-year-old smashed a heavy set of 150-pound incline dumbbell shoulder presses and posted a ripped physique update two months ago. He added he was not lifting heavy weights in an effort to get his waist down. Then, he performed a massive 405-pound bench press for 22 reps.
Larry Wheels crushed a 150-pound incline dumbbell bench press for a taxing 25 reps last month. He also gave fans a sneak peek at the package he would bring in his Classic Physique debut.
‘Classic Physique Feels Like an Art Form’: Larry Wheels on Not Doing ‘Extreme’ Open
In a recent Instagram post, Larry Wheels revealed his reasons for choosing Classic Physique over the Men’s Open division. He favored Classic Physique due to its artistic touch and less extreme requirements.
“I’m trying to break into the Classic bodybuilding division so I’m dropping some weight, trying to get a bit healthier, get that tight snatched waist,” said Wheels. “It’s a big change from being a powerlifter, strongman, strength athlete, where being lean was just a byproduct of good genes and hard training but it was never a priority until now.
“The shift, because that’s just the direction the industry is going and also people like Joshua Manoi who lives out here in LA, very beautiful physique, very graceful when he poses. It feels more like an art form versus Open bodybuilding it feels like mass monsters. And I say that with respect to them because I know what it takes to get that far. It’s just I can’t put myself to that extreme to be where they’re at. And that’s not what I want for myself nor the message I want to pass on to my audience.
“I find that with Classic bodybuilding, I can use far less PEDs such as just TRT for example, and I can still be competitive, have a beautiful physique, still be super strong, and it’s still enhanced lifting and an enhanced lifestyle but a much healthier approach.”
Larry Wheels demolished a huge set of 500-pound paused bench presses with the encouragement of powerlifting legend CT Fletcher two weeks ago. Then, he collaborated with Stefi Cohen for an intense training session where he crushed a 405-pound bench press.
RELATED: Eddie Hall and Larry Wheels Crush an Intense Boulder Shoulder Workout
Based on his track record, Wheels has a good chance of finding success and fans are excited to see how he looks on stage.
Published: 12 July, 2023 | 9:42 PM EDT
Larry Wheels Cranks Out 405 Lbs Bench Press In A Joint Training Session With Stefi Cohen
Larry Wheels and Stefi Cohen are renowned athletes recognized for their exceptional accomplishments across various sports disciplines. They recently teamed up for a weight training session. However, Stefi Cohen introduced Wheels to agility and strength training and he did quite well in spite of being relatively inexperienced in that area.
Larry Wheels is a multi-talented individual that has a presence in strength sports like bodybuilding, powerlifting as well as arm wrestling. He is best known for wrecking powerlifting records in the gym and routinely posts his feats of incredible strength on the YouTube channel that has garnered 2.78 million followers at the time of this article’s publishing.
Wheels is one of the rare individuals in the fitness industry that have openly admitted to using PEDs. The 28-year-old started using steroids at 17 years of age and continued to use it until recently. While steroids did help him elevate his performance and achieve new heights of athletic ability, they also took a toll on his quality of life.
After suffering a back injury ahead of the 2022 Middle-East’s Strongest Man, Wheels decided to stop the steroid abuse. He has switched to using HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) instead. The effects of this change are clearly visible on Wheels’ body. He has considerably downsized and admitted that the quality of his training and everyday life has improved significantly after chucking steroids. Earlier this year, he announced the plan to compete in bodybuilding.
Recently, Wheels partnered with Stefi Cohen. The 31-year-old has achieved success in several athletic endeavors like boxing, and powerlifting. The duo primarily tackled bench press in this training session. So without further delay, let’s check out how much weight they managed to lift.
Larry Wheels and Stefi Cohen train together
Larry Wheels and Stefi Cohen started the exercise with a few warm-up sets using an empty bar without plates. After sufficiently warming up the joints and muscles, the duo did a few working sets of bench press with progressive overload.
While Wheels performed the first working set with 135 lbs weight, Cohen started out slow and did the set with 95 lbs weight. Wheels and Cohen took a significant jump in weight and performed the second working set with 225 lbs and 135 lbs weight, respectively.
The amount of weight Larry Wheels has lifted in recent times is significantly lighter than what he used to pull off while being on PEDs. So was the case in this training session as well. Stefi Cohen casually asked the 28-year-old if it hurts his ego now that he does not lift as heavy. Wheels answered:
“If I was doing this a few years ago, I would say absolutely! But now that I am burned out doing powerlifting, for now, hitting PRs isn’t what drives me anymore anyway. So I’m not concerned about how much weight I am lifting…”
After performing the subsequent sets with incrementally heavier weights, Larry Wheels wrapped up the exercise after a top set of 405 lbs while Stefi Cohen capped at 175 lbs.
The weight lifted by Wheels and Cohen in each set was:
Larry Wheels
1st set – 135 lbs (61.2 kg)
2nd set – 225 lbs (102.1 kg)
3rd set – 315 lbs (142.9 kg)
4th set – 405 lbs (183.7 kg)
Stefi Cohen
1st Set – 95 lbs (43.1 kg)
2nd set – 135 lbs (61.2 kg)
3rd set – 155 lbs (70.3 kg)
4th set – 175 lbs (79.4 kg)
The aspiring bodybuilder tries his hand at agility training and explosive strength workout
Wheels and Cohen then went on to do agility training drills. They started with warm-up drills like running, high knee running, toe touch running, and lateral running, etc. They proceeded to perform exercises like box jumps. Following the agility drills, Wheels accompanied Cohen for an explosive strength training drill. This method of training is necessary for combat sports athletes. It improves the ability to generate power in a short amount of time which is needed for punching, kicking, dodging opponents’ strikes, etc.
Landmine Push Press
The duo started explosive strength training with this compound movement. Stefi Cohen explained to Larry Wheels that the movement has to be done with an explosive motion and not like a bodybuilding lift where the muscle has to be kept under tension for a longer duration. She then instructed the 28-year-old to do five reps per arm to build explosive strength and he followed the suit.
Band Assisted Plyometric Push-ups
Cohen next took to this effective exercise for building upper body power and explosiveness. Although it can be performed without the resistance band, using it decreases the amount of load, allowing faster and more explosive movements. After doing a few sets of this exercises, Cohen took to the final one.
Band assisted high jumps
This exercise was not included in the training session for any specific benefit of it. However, Cohen experimented with it for her personal entertainment and enjoyment. She did a set of five reps and wrapped up the training session.
Overall, the session included:
Landmine Push Press
Band Assisted Plyometric Push-ups
Band Assisted High Jumps
“I don’t want to go to that extreme” – Larry Wheels explains why he will not compete in the Men’s Open division
Larry Wheels is getting ready for competing in the Classic Physique division for his return to bodybuilding competition. While he does have a large frame that can be more suited for the Men’s Open division, Wheels has a very specific reason for not taking that route. He explained:
“I’m having that approach because doing Open bodybuilding at my height, I’d have to be a mass monster and take drugs that’ll probably end up killing me. I don’t want to go to that extreme anymore.”
Wheels explained that the weight cut-off in the Classic Physique division at his height is 230 lbs for amateur competitors and 240 lbs for professional competitors. It is not a drastic change from his walk-around weight.
“So I can comfortably hold where I’m at right now – 255 lbs – no problem! We’ve got to work on my symmetry, conditioning and of course, posing!”
Although Wheels used to have a thick midsection, which is not really appreciated in the Classic Physique division that demands a perfect X-frame, he is fixing that problem by not doing heavy deadlifts or squats.
Larry Wheels added that his body is developed like a powerlifter and not like a Classic Physique bodybuilder. For instance, he stated that his lower pecs are overdeveloped from doing flat bench press more than any other chest exercise variation. Wheels even admitted that he had not addressed any of these issues at the time of his bodybuilding debut in 2018.
“This overall symmetry, conditioning, gracefully posing on stage, charisma… These things are super important in bodybuilding. When I was on stage in 2018, I wasn’t addressing! Lifting heavy… Basically, going on stage as a powerlifter. Getting lean… Following the diet but my posing and training, it wasn’t as a bodybuilder’s training. So that’s where I am making up ground now and I’m lovin’ it,” Wheels stated.
Larry Wheels has been quite successful in the sports he has explored. It will be interesting to see how his bodybuilding debut plays out.
You can watch the full video here, courtesy of Larry Wheels’ personal YouTube channel:
Published: 7 July, 2023 | 10:27 PM EDT
Larry Wheels Crushes 500-Lb Paused Bench Press with Motivation from CT Fletcher
Powerlifting sensation Larry Wheels is known to wear many hats. Although he started his journey in powerlifting, he also has experience competing in other sports. In a recent Instagram post, Wheels crushed a massive set of 500-lb bench press with motivation from powerlifting legend CT Fletcher.
Larry Wheels first rose to prominence for his insane feats of strength in powerlifting. He initially set the World Record on the squat, bench, and deadlift at 2,275 pounds total without wraps in the 275-lb weight category, but Zac Meyers broke it earlier this month. Besides his strength, Wheels stood out from his competition with an aesthetic and shredded physique. He also tested the waters in competitive bodybuilding and emerged victorious in his debut at the NPC Gold Coast Muscle Classic in Feb. 2018.
In Aug. 2022, Wheels decided to quit using PEDs (performance-enhancing drugs) after getting injured in contest prep. He indicated that his plans were to get on TRT (testosterone replacement therapy) to accommodate for the damage from his near-decade-long use of steroids.
Earlier this year, Wheels revealed he’d switch to bodybuilding as a Classic Physique competitor. Given his muscle mass, he’s confident he could hold his own in the division while staying healthy as opposed to battling in the Men’s Open. Following the 2023 Arnold Classic, Wheels sharpened his posing skills with Open standout William Bonac in a collaborative session with rising sensation Andrew Jacked.
Wheels left the fans in awe of his shredded physique update in preparation for his highly-anticipated Classic Physique debut three months ago. While he’s not targeting Mr. Olympia just yet, he believes he has the right skills to challenge the likes of four-time Olympia champion Chris Bumstead.
Larry Wheels showed off his unreal biceps peak in a physique update posing en route to his Classic Physique debut last month. He boasted a ripped build while performing two poses. Then, he smoked 150-lb incline dumbbell shoulder presses and provided another stellar physique update.
Larry Wheels Crushes 500lbs Bench Press with Motivation from CT Fletcher
In a recent Instagram post, Larry Wheels crushed a heavy 500-pound bench press with CT Fletcher by his side motivating him through the slow reps.
CT Fletcher is an inspiring figure in the fitness community who’s celebrated for his perseverance and never-give-up attitude. Despite facing serious health challenges, the former powerlifter continues on strong.
“500 lbs for an eternity of a pause by @c.t.ali.fletcher,” wrote Wheels.
Fletcher hinted at a collaboration video with Wheels dropping soon.
Larry Wheels pulled off a 405-lb (183.7-kg) bench press for 22 reps three weeks ago. He followed up by smashing a 150-lb incline dumbbell bench press for 25 reps. He also detailed his focus on developing fullness in his chest.
Wheels partnered with Joe Linder, popularly known as Joesthetics, to enhance his posing abilities a few days ago. He later teamed up with Odd Haugen to work on his grip strength where he was flabbergasted by the 73-year-old’s power.
RELATED: Eddie Hall and Larry Wheels Crush an Intense Boulder Shoulder Workout
Wheels hasn’t lost his outlandish strength despite preparing for bodybuilding. He remains dedicated in his journey to the Classic Physique division.
Published: 30 June, 2023 | 2:00 AM EDT
73-Year-Old Strongman Legend Beats Larry Wheels In Grip Strength: “Honestly, Blown Away”
Larry Wheels is a freak in all aspects, but he has a particularly strong grip now that he has been arm wrestling for three years. However, even he could not outperform the “old man strength” phenomenon. Still, there is more to the story than that, as the guy Larry Wheels went against in grip strength was none other than the legendary 73-year-old Strongman Odd Haugen. While Odd does not specialize in arm wrestling, his grip strength is out of this world. So, Larry and Odd partnered up for a grip training session with a few custom implements.
Odd Haugen is a very big name in the Strongman world, but his grip strength is still unfathomable. He is nicknamed “The Visegrip Viking” for his remarkable abilities, which have only gotten better as he aged. So, even a superhuman athlete like Larry Wheels could not match Odd’s grip strength, despite being decades younger than him.
Related: 71-yo Strongman Odd Haugen Deadlifts 451lb For Three Reps (VIDEO)
Larry Wheels Takes On Odd Haugen’s Grip
Larry Wheel first revealed what the concept of the videos is and initiated a short conversation with Odd Haugen. He then revealed that the 73-year-old Norwegian man has been training for the past six decades. However, he only focused on grip training when he retired from Strongman.
Test One — Saxon Bar Deadlift
The pair then began their first exercise, and it was the Saxon Bar deadlift. This barbell is made to look like a block, so it is impossible to pick it up in any other way except with a pinch grip. Although both men have previously done this exercise, Odd is much more experienced, which is why he gave Larry some tips.
Larry Wheels ended up lifting 120 kilograms (264.5 pounds), heavier than ever before. He then attempted to lift 125 kilograms (275.5 pounds), but the bar slipped from his hands before he managed to pick it up. So, that was his grip strength limit on this exercise. On the other hand, Odd Haugen lifted 125 kilograms (275.5 pounds), but could not go heavier.
“That inspires me, because there is going to be a point in my career when I say, okay, no longer do I feel like a Superhero, I have to pivot… I love two things, arm wrestling and grip training, and I can do that in my 70s,” stated Larry.
Test Two — Circus Dumbbell
The second grip test of the day was the Circus Dumbbell, which often appears in Strongman competitions. However, the Strongmen use two hands to pick up the dumbbell to their shoulder and overhead press it. Instead, Odd Haugen and Larry Wheels tried to pick up an 81.7-kilogram (180-pound) Circus Dumbbell with one arm.
“Last time I was here, Martins (Licis) and I tried it. I was able to do it, Martins was not… Even Brian Shaw tried it and he couldn’t do it,” said Haugen before they commenced the exercise.
Larry Wheels first tried to pick up a 78-kilogram (172-pound) Thomas Inch Dumbbell, but was not able to do it. It was not the case that it was too heavy, but the 2 ⅜” handle was too much for his grip strength. On the other hand, Odd easily picked it up.
Consequently, Larry Wheels was also unable to pick up an even heavier Circus Dumbbell with a thicker handle. However, the 3-inch handle did not stop Odd Haugen who once again displayed his mind blowing grip strength.
“What a Man. Incredible,” said a visibly impressed Larry Wheels.
Test Three — Rollin Thunder
The final test of the grip challenge was the Rolling Thunder. This is basically an attachment for a plated loaded platform. So, with a thick and rolling handle, this piece of equipment is a true challenge for anyone.
For reference, many incredible Strongman athletes like Martins Licis, and arm wrestling athletes like Ermes and Vitaly Laletin, attempted this exercise, and they all lingered around 90 to 100 kilograms (198.4 to 220.5 pounds). Despite this, a 73-year-old Odd Haugen lifted 90 kilograms (198.4 pounds) with both arms consecutively. He could have gone heavier, but chose to stop.
Larry Wheels wanted to try out Odd Haugen in arm wrestling. Due to better technique and experience in the sport, Larry outperformed Odd, but did not push the limits in order to avoid injuries.
“He had me beat on every move we did today. I think the longer we went on, the weaker I was going to get. It was really cool to witness that. Honestly, blown away. Huge inspiration for the next generation to see that you can be 73-years-old and stronger than a World Record powerlifter,” said Larry to wrap up the YouTube video.
Watch the video here:
Related: Larry Wheels Smokes 150-Lb Incline Dumbbell Bench Press for 25 Reps, Shares Ripped Update
It was incredible to see a man stepping into his eighth decade of life outperform one of the strongest people alive. So, Odd Haugen once again proved that anything is possible, as he has done many times throughout his Strongman career. This also cements his status as an iconic athlete, especially since it takes a lot to impress Larry Wheels.
Published: 29 June, 2023 | 5:41 AM EDT
Larry Wheels Takes Posing Lessons From Joe Linder aka Joesthetics
Bodybuilder, powerlifter, and arm wrestler Larry Wheels is a multi-faceted personality and one of the most famous fitness influencers on YouTube. Wheels is known for wrecking his own personal records in the gym. However, most of his strength feats were backed by pharmacological help. The 28-year-old extensively used PEDs to fuel his performance for a very long time.
Wheels chose to stop using steroids after a back injury and underwent a significant physical transformation as a result. The powerlifter has never shied away from admitting steroid use and maintained honesty about his experiences with PEDs. He admitted that steroids helped him achieve insane feats of strength but also caused several health issues.
He feels far better without the abuse and continues creating new gym records. In recent months, he performed a 183.7-kilogram (405-pound) bench press for 22 reps and smoked a 150-pound incline dumbbell press for 25 reps.
Wheels made his amateur bodybuilding debut at the 2018 NPC Gold Coast Muscle Classic and won the competition in the overall category. He now desires to compete in the Classic Physique division and feels he can beat other competitors without abusing steroids.
Larry Wheels and Joesthetics perform an arm workout
Wheels has been taking bodybuilding and posing lessons from the sport’s veterans and recently partnered with German bodybuilder, influencer, and fitness model Joe Linder aka Joesthetics. The duo trained arms together, discussed PED usage, and Linder gave some interesting posing lessons to Wheels. So let’s take a closer look at the detailed account of this session.
Cable Biceps Curl
Wheels and Linder performed cable biceps curls to build the biceps and did a few sets while discussing different aspects of bodybuilding. Cable machines keep the muscles under tension throughout the movement; hence, they potently induce hypertrophy.
Triceps Rope Pushdown
The duo next took to the triceps rope pushdown to work the triceps and performed a few solid sets that targeted all three triceps heads. Wheels spoke into the camera and marveled at his training partner’s insane diet discipline.
“I was talking to all these IFBB Pros back in the day, and I asked everyone. Everyone told me the same thing — there is no magic pill. The only thing that you can do is burn the fucking calories, bro. If you want to eat them, you have to burn them,” said Jo Linder.
Following this, the bodybuilders proceeded to practice posing.
Overall, the workout included:
Joe Linder speaks about his experience with steroids
As Wheels watched Linder perform the exercise, he pointed out that the latter looked lean but still bigger than the last time they trained together. The 30-year-old stated he is always on a strict diet to get big and lean. There is pharmacological assistance as well. However, it is in a smaller dose than you may imagine.
“For my last show, I took 75 MG of Tren — a week, not a day! A week! So very low dose…” Linder said.
He added:
“I believe that I gained another 5 pounds of muscle during my prep for the show. Because I kind of dieted very slow, and I grew even into the show.”
Linder pushed the diet really hard and also did a lot of cardio. However, he did not get as flat and was able to retain the muscle mass on his frame.
The German bodybuilder said he had stopped steroid use two days before his last show and looks much better even while only on TRT.
Continuing the discussion about his cycle, he stated that he got blood work done after using Tren for three weeks. A surprising thing that he encountered was extremely high estrogen levels. However, Joe believes the tests do not accurately reflect what’s happening in the body while on Tren.
“That’s something that people need to understand. The first few weeks when you take Tren, and you go test your levels, the Tren makes your estrogen level appear high depending upon the testing methods they use…” Linder said.
However, he believes that Tren does not harm the body in any way.
Linder gives Wheels posing lessons
While going through the workouts, Linder and Wheels decided to practice posing. Wheels admitted to being a novice in this area.
“Different physiques, different styles, and we’re about to correct each other with our posing,” Linder said.
He then went on to teach Wheels a few posing basics. The duo started with the front double biceps pose, and Linder said:
“You technically need to know what to do with your legs. When you stand on the stage, you can’t just do this (raise the arms and flex the biceps)… You have o squeeze your legs, hold the tension there…”
While responding to Wheels’ query, he stated that you have to try to separate the floor with your feet. This means you have to try to apply the force with your feet in the opposing direction to create the lines. However, everyone has their own way of creating tension, as he added:
“You have to practice. The way some people do it is with their toes — almost squeeze it together so it gives you the feeling of trying to squeeze your toes together, so you have more tension.”
Linder further stated:
“What personally helped me is when I put my feet a tiny bit apart. So I (duck slightly) because then my quad sweep comes out better.”
“I stand very narrow because I have shitty hamstrings but good quads,” he concluded.
The posing lessons continued as the partner hit the side chest pose.
“Always when you do poses, you start from the bottom,” Linder said.
“You have your calves, you press it against, then you have your glutes and everything else.”
Wheels admitted that his side chest is his worst pose. Linder taught a few more tricks to Wheels. He also shared a tip for making the side chest stand out.
“You have to squeeze the (visible/front) leg against the knee (of the other leg) so that it creates an illusion (of bigger hamstrings),” Linder added.
Some more tips followed, and the duo wrapped up the posing session after hitting a few more poses.
You can watch the full workout video below, courtesy of Larry Wheels’ YouTube channel:
Published: 25 June, 2023 | 12:05 AM EDT
Powerlifter Zac Meyers (140KG) Sets 1,077.5-kg (2,375.5-lb) Raw Total All-Time World Record Previously Held By Larry Wheels
The All-Time World Record list has altered significantly during the past week or so since many of the records were broken in the 2023 IPF Worlds. So, with one of the greatest competitions of the season taking place, Zac Meyers historic performance almost passed unnoticed. Zac competed at the 2023 WRPF King of the Cave 3, which took place on June 17th in Maryland. He partook in the 140-kilogram weight class and set a brand new 1,077.5-kilogram (2,375.5-pound) Raw Total All-Time World Record.
The previous U140KG All-Time World Record in the raw Total event was held by the iconic Larry Wheels. Known as one of the strongest people alive, Larry was the face of powerlifting at one point due to his numerous World Records. This specific one was set at the 2020 XPC Arnold where Larry landed a Total of 1,075 kilograms (2,370 pounds).
Zac Meyers Full Performance
Squat
In order to set a World Record Total, Zac Meyers had to open his performance extremely well, and he did just that. With all three of his squats moving smooth like butter, Zac’s heaviest lift in this event came out to 405 kilograms (892.9 pounds).
370 kilograms (815.7 pounds)
390 kilograms (859.8 pounds)
405 kilograms (892.9 pounds) — Competition PR
“My opener on squats was 815 then I jumped to 859 finally to the 892. Opened light to see how squats was feeling and they flew.
I feel like I had another 10-15 lbs. just gotta save it for next time”
Related: Sonita Muluh (+84KG) Scores 285.5-kg (629.4-lb) Raw Squat All-Time World Record at 2023 IPF World Classic Powerlifting Championships
Bench Press
The bench press is Zac Meyers’ prowess. So, it is no surprise that he once again performed well. However, he was unable to achieve perfection, having failed his third attempt. Thus, his heaviest bench came out to 285 kilograms (628.3 pounds).
272.5 kilograms (600.8 pounds)
285 kilograms (628.3 pounds) — Competition PR
Unsuccessful — 293 kilograms (646 pounds)
“Bench I hit 628 I went up to 645.9 for the ATWR full power bench but as soon as I got it in my hands my upper chest tightened up and I just racked it.”
Deadlift
Having known exactly what he needed to lift in order to set a new All-Time Total World Record, Zac Meyers warmed up on the first attempt and shot straight for the record on his second one. So, after successfully deadlifting 387.5 kilograms (854.2 pounds) for a new Total record, Zac did not even bother to try his final attempt.
370 kilograms (815.7 pounds)
387.5 kilograms (854.2 pounds) — Competition PR
Did not attempt
“Deadlift I knew I needed 854 so I changed my opener to 815 hit it and went straight to 854 and got it.”
Total — 1,077.5 kilograms (2,375.5 pounds) — Raw All-Time World Record
Watch all of Zac Meyers’ lifts here:
Related: Farhanna Farid (52KG) Sets 203-kg (447.5-lb) Raw Deadlift All-Time World Record at 2023 IPF World Championships
Zac Meyers’ Competition History
Personal Bests
Equip
Squat
Bench
Deadlift
Total
Dots
Raw
888.5
617.3
888.5
2325.9
601.01
Competition Results
Place
Fed
Date
Competition
Division
Total
Dots
1
WRPF
2022-07-29
American Pro
Open
2325.9
601.01
Location
USA-VA
Competition
American Pro
Division
Open
Age
27
Equipment
Raw
Class
275.6
Weight
271.2
Squat
870.8
-905
870.8
Bench
595.2
-617.3
617.3
617.3
Deadlift
799.2
837.8
-854.3
837.8
GLP
121.33
1
WRPF
2021-09-25
The Bucked Up Showdown
Open
2281.8
587.64
Location
USA-MO
Competition
The Bucked Up Showdown
Division
Open
Age
27
Equipment
Raw
Class
275.6
Weight
274
Squat
832.2
-870.8
870.8
870.8
Bench
562.2
600.8
-617.3
600.8
Deadlift
760.6
810.2
-837.8
810.2
GLP
118.5
1
USPA
2021-07-24
Pennsylvania State Championship
Open
2265.2
581.61
Location
USA-PA
Competition
Pennsylvania State Championship
Division
Open
Age
27
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
276.7
Squat
843.3
-859.8
859.8
859.8
Bench
578.7
-600.8
-600.8
578.7
Deadlift
799.2
826.7
-837.8
826.7
GLP
117.16
1
USPA
2021-06-03
National Championships
Open
2292.8
592.62
Location
USA-TX
Competition
National Championships
Division
Open
Age
27
Equipment
Raw
Class
275.6
Weight
270.9
Squat
859.8
-892.9
-892.9
859.8
Bench
562.2
595.2
611.8
611.8
Deadlift
782.6
821.2
-851
821.2
GLP
119.65
1
USPA
2020-12-12
No Luck Needed Open
Open
2321.5
598.94
Location
USA-MD
Competition
No Luck Needed Open
Division
Open
Age
26
Equipment
Raw
Class
275.6
Weight
272.5
Squat
804.7
859.8
888.5
888.5
Bench
551.2
589.7
600.8
600.8
Deadlift
771.6
810.2
832.2
832.2
GLP
120.85
2
WRPF
2020-09-26
The Showdown
Open
2243.2
576.09
Location
USA-MO
Competition
The Showdown
Division
Open
Age
25
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
276.5
Squat
804.7
-854.3
854.3
854.3
Bench
551.2
584.2
-595.2
584.2
Deadlift
749.6
804.7
-815.7
804.7
GLP
116.06
1
IPL
2019-10-18
World Powerlifting Championships
Open
2215.6
564.19
Location
Germany
Competition
World Powerlifting Championships
Division
Open
Age
25
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
284.2
Squat
810.2
854.3
-865.3
854.3
Bench
551.2
-589.7
589.7
589.7
Deadlift
771.6
-815.7
-815.7
771.6
GLP
113.31
1
USPA
2019-06-27
National Championships
Open
2248.7
566.4
Location
USA-OH
Competition
National Championships
Division
Open
Age
25
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
294.8
Squat
837.8
Bench
606.3
Deadlift
804.7
GLP
113.27
1
USPA
2019-03-23
6th IBC Classic & WV State Championship
Open
2166
543.92
Location
USA-WV
Competition
6th IBC Classic & WV State Championship
Division
Open
Age
25
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
297.8
Squat
788.2
Bench
573.2
Deadlift
804.7
GLP
108.65
1
USPA
2018-06-09
WV State Championship & 5th IBC Classic
Open
2133
547.1
Location
USA-WV
Competition
WV State Championship & 5th IBC Classic
Division
Open
Age
24
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
277.6
Squat
810.2
Bench
551.2
Deadlift
771.6
GLP
110.17
1
IPL
2017-09-16
Junior Cup
Juniors 20-23
2073.4
528.99
Location
USA-WV
Competition
Junior Cup
Division
Juniors 20-23
Age
23
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
282.4
Squat
800.3
Bench
523.6
Deadlift
749.6
GLP
106.31
1
USPA
2016-10-22
4th Annual Bar Fight
Juniors 20-23
2039.3
526.54
Location
USA-WV
Competition
4th Annual Bar Fight
Division
Juniors 20-23
Age
22
Equipment
Raw
Class
275.6
Weight
271.8
Squat
749.6
Bench
540.1
Deadlift
749.6
GLP
106.27
DQ
USPA
2016-06-25
3rd Annual IBC Classic
Juniors 20-23
Location
USA-WV
Competition
3rd Annual IBC Classic
Division
Juniors 20-23
Age
22
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
278.7
Squat
694.5
Bench
534.6
1
USPA
2016-05-07
West Virginia State Powerlifting Meet
Juniors 20-23
2050.3
517.56
Location
USA-WV
Competition
West Virginia State Powerlifting Meet
Division
Juniors 20-23
Age
22
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
292.6
Squat
749.6
Bench
573.2
Deadlift
727.5
GLP
103.6
1
USPA
2015-12-12
Power for a Purpose Powerlifting Meet
Juniors 20-23
1818.8
462.27
Location
USA-WV
Competition
Power for a Purpose Powerlifting Meet
Division
Juniors 20-23
Age
21
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
285.9
Squat
677.9
Bench
490.5
Deadlift
650.4
GLP
92.77
1
USPA
2015-12-12
Power for a Purpose Powerlifting Meet
Open
1818.8
462.27
Location
USA-WV
Competition
Power for a Purpose Powerlifting Meet
Division
Open
Age
21
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
285.9
Squat
677.9
Bench
490.5
Deadlift
650.4
GLP
92.77
Data Source: Open Powerlifting. Last Updated: April 12, 2023
Analyze Lifts
Zac Meyers is already a well-known name in the powerlifting community, since he now has almost eight years of experience. During this period, Zac took part in 17 sanctioned powerlifting competitions and won 15 of them. He previously also set World Records in the 125-kilogram weight class, but now made his way in the 140-kilogram weight class as well. In addition, at 29 years old, he still has time to compete at the highest level and further improve some more World Records.
Published: 21 June, 2023 | 10:05 AM EDT