Tag: powerlifting
Hafthor Bjornsson On Pec Injury: ‘I Completely Tore My Upper Chest off The Bone’, Says ‘He Will Have To Have Surgery’
Having set extremely high goals for this year, Hafthor Bjornsson was excited to see how much progress he had made in the past few months. Aiming to break the All-Time Raw With Wraps World Record in powerlifting, Hafthor was dedicated to improving his squat, bench, and deadlift. However, at his most recent appearance, Hafthor suffered a gruesome injury during one of these events. While taking part in a Powerlifting competition at his home gym in Iceland, Hafthor loaded up 252.5 kilograms (556.7 pounds) for his final bench press attempt. Upon trying to control the bar down to his chest, Hafthor’s left pec muscle detached, resulting in chilling screams of pain. Having taken some time to reflect on the situation, Hafthor has now released updates for his fans.
One of the updates was posted on Instagram, while the other was shared on YouTube. On Instagram, Hafthor Bjornsson posted a picture of what his chest currently looks like. It is clear that his left pec is injured, as the skin has changed color to purple.
Related: Hafthor Björnsson Sets 20-Feet 3-Inches Weight Over Bar World Record at 2022 Rogue Invitational, Says “I Might Come Back”
Firstly, it is important to note that Hafthor Bjornsson has suffered multiple injuries throughout his career as a Strongman and powerlifter. So, he speaks with experience on the subject and estimates that his peck has completely detached from the bone.
“I believe I completely tore my chest, upper chest, off the bone. I will have to have surgery if that is the case”
If his assumption is correct, Hafthor Bjornsson will definitely have to undergo surgery. He has already scheduled an MRI which will reveal every detail of his injury.
Hafthor also revealed that this is the biggest injury of his career so far. However, judging by the remainder of his statement it seems that he will continue chasing his goals after the recovery process is finished.
“This is literally the biggest injury of my whole career. So, I got to tackle this”
The injury has also made it more difficult for Hafthor Bjornsson to carry out daily tasks. He is a left-handed person, but that arm is immobilized due to the pec tear. However, Hafthor used this chance to make some jokes.
“I have a difficult time wiping my a**. Putting my underwear on is difficult. You know, it’s life.”
Watch Hafthor Bjornsson’s video here:
Related: Hafthor Björnsson Drops The Bar on Himself After Squatting 340-kg (749.6-lb) For Two Reps; Avoids Serious Injuries
Hafthor Bjornsson ventured into boxing after conquering Strongman with a 2018 WSM victory and a 501-kilogram (1,104.5-pound) Deadlift World Record. In boxing, he managed to beat fellow Strongman, Eddie Hall, following which Bjornsson realized that lifting weights is his true passion.
Consequently, Hafthor Bjornsson decided to come back to powerlifting at the end of last year. Furthermore, he extended his goals for this year, aiming to set a new World Record this year, but that seems almost impossible at this time. Hafthor still refers to this injury as a “small setback“. So, he obviously already has his future planned out.
Published: 17 April, 2023 | 12:47 PM EDT
Video: Hafthor Bjornsson Tears His Pec During 252.5-kg (556.7-lb) Bench Press Attempt
It has been a few months since Hafthor Bjornsson announced that he was coming back to powerlifting. Initially, he only wanted to get back to lifting weights following his boxing venture, but that quickly grew into some much bigger goals. With the love for the sport reignited in him, Hafthor decided to try to break the All-Time Raw W/Wraps World Record Total by the end of 2023. He started putting on some weight and training professionally, which resulted in some impressive improvements. However, it seems that his exhibition will be cut short, or at least slowed down, since Hafthor just tore his pec muscle.
Wanting to test his strength and technique, Hafthor Bjornsson organized a powerlifting competition in his gym. The competition took place on April 15th, and lasted the entire day. Hafthor started off strong, but his day was ruined on the bench press. After successfully and easily locking out 230 kilograms (507.1 pounds) and 240 kilograms (529.1 pounds), Hafthor loaded 252.5 kilograms (556.7 pounds) for his final attempt.
Having never lifted this much weight before, Hafthor Bjornsson was eager to score a new competition PR. However, when he started to lower the 252.5 kilograms (556.7 pounds) down to his chest, his pec muscle torn. This resulted in a spine-chilling scream from the 2018 World’s Strongest Man, which only stopped after the spotters lifted the bar off him.
The video of the incident was shared by a Strongman promoter, Julian Howard, on Instagram. The footage clearly shows Hafthor’s pec muscle detaching, along with the sound of tearing.
Watch the video here:
Related: Hafthor Björnsson Drops The Bar on Himself After Squatting 340-kg (749.6-lb) For Two Reps; Avoids Serious Injuries
Hafthor Bjornsson will probably reveal the severity of the injury as soon as he completes all the necessary testing. However, pec tears can take months to recover, and it seems that Hafthor’s injury is very serious. So, it is likely that his ambitions of breaking the All-Time World Record will have to be prolonged.
Before tearing his pec, Hafthor Bjornsson had a relatively decent start to the competition. He squatted 380 kilograms (837.6 pounds) and 420 kilograms (925.9 pounds) on his first two attempts. Bjornsson then moved on to his third attempt of 445 kilograms (981 pounds) and crushed it. However, the third attempt was then disallowed because of his depth.
Hafthor Bjornsson also intended to return to Strongman in 2024, but this injury might affect those plans as well. Both Powerlifting and Strongman are notorious for their injuries. Hafthor’s risk was potentially even greater, seeing that he took two years off to train boxing. While doing that, Hafthor beat Eddie Hall in one of the heaviest fights in history. Shortly after the match, Hafthor realized that his love lies in strength sports.
The first thing Hafthor Bjornsson did after retiring from boxing was break a World Record in Strongman. He further improved his own Weight Over Bar record at the 2022 Rogue Invitational.
Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson’s Powerlifting Career
Personal Bests
Equip
Squat
Bench
Deadlift
Total
Dots
Wraps
970
551.2
970
2425.1
551.79
Raw
474
1113.3
268.28
Competition Results
Place
Fed
Date
Competition
Division
Total
Dots
1
WRPF-Iceland
2018-12-15
Thors Powerlifting Challenge
Open
2425.1
551.79
Location
Iceland
Competition
Thors Powerlifting Challenge
Division
Open
Age
30
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
435.4
Squat
-925.9
970
-1014.1
970
Bench
518.1
540.1
551.2
551.2
Deadlift
859.8
903.9
-948
903.9
2
RAW-Iceland
2011-06-03
Íslandsmót
Open
2050.3
470.77
Location
Iceland
Competition
Íslandsmót
Division
Open
Age
22
Equipment
Wraps
Class
308.6
Weight
418.6
Squat
661.4
716.5
771.6
771.6
Bench
463
485
507.1
507.1
Deadlift
771.6
-837.8
-837.8
771.6
1
IKF
2010-09-22
Heildarúrslit
Open
474
110.15
Location
Iceland
Competition
Heildarúrslit
Division
Open
Age
21
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
398.6
Bench
440.9
474
-496
474
GLP
78.04
1
WPC-Iceland
2010-03-20
Icelandic Championships
Open
1113.3
268.28
Location
Iceland
Competition
Icelandic Championships
Division
Open
Age
21
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
346.2
Bench
330.7
352.7
385.8
385.8
Deadlift
617.3
683.4
727.5
727.5
1
RAW-Iceland
2010-02-27
Íslandsmót
Open
705.5
170.88
Location
Iceland
Competition
Íslandsmót
Division
Open
Age
21
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
339.5
Deadlift
617.3
661.4
705.5
-727.5
705.5
Data Source: Open Powerlifting. Last Updated: April 12, 2023
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Related: Hafthor Björnsson Inducted into The International Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2023
Hafthor Bjornsson has experienced multiple injuries during his career and successfully overcame them all. Hopefully he will do the same with this one and then continue where he left off. Bjornsson will undoubtedly soon come out with a statement revealing what the future has in store for him.
Published: 15 April, 2023 | 4:19 PM EDT
Bodybuilder Joe Mackey Scores 800-lb (362.9-kg) Raw Deadlift For Four-Rep PR
In bodybuilding, the emphasis is placed on developing an aesthetically pleasing physique rather than pure strength, which is not a top priority for most athletes in the sport. However, Joe Mackey is one of those who make a deliberate effort to get the best of both worlds. Boasting a humongous physique, with especially impressive arms, Joe also ranks among the strongest humans to walk the earth. He is not a stranger to impressive feats of strength, with the majority of his notable displays coming on the deadlift. This was the case once again, as Joe shared his newest four-rep PR on Instagram. After loading 800 pounds (362.9 kilograms) on the barbell, Joe Mackey got into position and completed four swift reps with ease.
As per usual, Joe Mackey only used a lifting belt and lifting straps to complete the humongous set. He is also sticking to a conventional stance, which has proven to be his prowess over the years.
“800 lbs flew tonight, the time was a 1.1 second rep”
Watch Joe Mackey’s here:
Related: Off Season Muscle Growth — Here’s What’s In Bodybuilder Joe Mackey’s Grocery Cart
Joe Mackey’s deadlift abilities have always been mind-blowing, especially among bodybuilders. It seems that no one in the history of bodybuilding has ever deadlifted as much as him, having locked out 910 pounds (412.7 kilograms) in January. However, Joe is aiming to become the first bodybuilder to deadlift 1,000 pounds (453.6 kilograms) as well.
In order to achieve the mind-blowing 1,000-pound (453.6-kilogram) deadlift, Joe Mackey sought help from fellow strength and bodybuilding enthusiast, Larry Wheels. With Wheels guiding him through the process, Joe Mackey hopes to shatter all limits. He has already shown improvement with this 800-pound (362.9-kilogram) four-rep PR, but there will be more to come.
Despite dedicating a lot of time towards improving his deadlifting abilities over the course of the past year, Joe Mackey has not neglected his bodybuilding career either. He put up two impressive performances at the end of 2022. The first one was a fifth-place finish at the 2022 IFBB Tampa Pro, with a ninth-place finish at the 2022 IFBB Texas Pro as well.
Related: Bodybuilder Joe Mackey Shows Off Insanely Shredded Physique Ahead Of 2022 IFBB Tampa & Texas Pro
Joe Mackey is doing everything in his power to get closer to four digits on the deadlift. He keeps a strict diet, with occasional massive cheat meals. In addition, Joe pushes his boundaries on other exercises. One of those is the Hack Squat, having recently performed five reps with 449 kilograms (990 pounds).
It is currently not clear when Joe Mackey will compete again or if he plans on attempting a new deadlift PR anytime soon. Nevertheless, it is apparent that he is making good progress toward his goal. Therefore, any goals he may have are certainly achievable.
Published: 15 April, 2023 | 1:47 PM EDT
6 Best Powerlifting Programs (Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced)
There are hundreds of free powerlifting programs that you can find on the internet that cater to different levels of powerlifters. You have old programs that have changed in popularity over time, and you have new coaches coming up with their own programs. Trying to decipher what program to start with can leave you paralyzed…
Larry Wheels on Chris Bumstead & Move to Classic Physique: ‘My Coach Said I Can Be Competitive With Just TRT’
Powerlifting icon Larry Wheels is a man of many talents with experience in multiple fitness sports, such as strongman, powerlifting, and arm wrestling. In a recent Bradley Martyn’s Raw Talk, Wheels discussed his transition to Classic Physique and how he’d stack up against reigning four-time champ Chris Bumstead.
Larry Wheels is one of the most popular figures in the fitness space, boasting over 4.4 million followers on Instagram. He first gained attention for his muscle-bound physique and crazy strength. Larry has proven himself already as an aspiring bodybuilder. He earned gold in his amateur debut at the NPC Gold Coast Muscle Classic in Feb. 2018.
Wheels redirected his focus after a sudden training mishap. He picked up an injury while preparing for the 2022 Middle East’s Strongest Man contest and decided to quit steroids. Since he had been using performance-enhancing drugs for about a decade, he tapered off slowly and with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
Earlier this year, Wheels opened up about the origins of his steroid use. He credited using TRT at the age of 17 instead of delving further into the world of illicit drugs. He revealed TRT helped him pack on over 32 pounds in two months.
After abstaining from steroids, Wheels began tracking his strength. He conducted a powerlifting mock meet to measure his lifts on the squat, bench press, and deadlift. While he did not record his all-time best lifts, he managed to pull off some spectacular lifts.
Larry Wheels teamed up with fitness influencer Lexx Little for a heavy lower-body strength training session. He crushed a massive set of 505-lb (229-kg) squats for a 16-rep AMRAP (as many reps as possible). Then, Wheels pushed Lexx to achieve a new PR on the squat after two years of stalled progress.
The 28-year-old was enlisted to help IFBB Pro Joe Mackey achieve his goal of lifting 1,000 pounds (453.6 kilograms) on the deadlift. Mackey targeted becoming one of the strongest IFBB Pros in history and used Wheels’ expertise to get closer to his goal.
Wheels left the fans stunned with his insane strength two months ago. He smoked past a huge 200-lb dumbbell bench press for three reps. Additionally, he showed off his jacked physique while performing 100-lb hammer curls for reps.
Wheels declared his plan to switch to bodybuilding as a Classic Physique competitor last month. He gave fans a look into his preparations for making the transition and even received help from William Bonac and Andrew Jacked with posing instructions.
Larry Wheels backed himself to be competitive in Classic Physique, ruled by Chris Bumstead
In a recent YouTube video, Larrry Wheels shared his thoughts on pursuing a run in the Classic Physique division and his chances of challenging four-time Olympia champ Chris Bumstead.
“Classic bodybuilding because since 18, I went on Open bodybuilding stage,” said Wheels. “I was just too small for my height not competitive whatsoever but now that you know CBum really took the division to new heights. The division is more popular than ever and I don’t have to be on even more than TRT to be as big as him right now meaning I can actually be competitive according to my coach.
“From what I can see on just TRT and the absolute bare minimum so without a major compromise to my health like Open bodybuilding being a mass monster or pursuing what records in powerlifting where I can shrink down to 230 which is the cut off for my height on stage, look phenomenal and have content ready.”
Wheels said he felt burned out in powerlifting and expressed his excitement about fulfilling his potential in bodybuilding.
“I believe I can be competitive in Classic but I want to see if I really dedicate myself as I am now the last couple months I’ve been here, the next couple of years, how my physique can transform because training as a powerlifter gave me a very different physique to I was training all this time. I want to see what that looks like. I’m not saying I’m going to be next Mr. Olympia but at the very least I want to get my Pro card, win overalls, and see a transformation within myself. I want to see what it looks like a couple years of bodybuilding.
“Now that I’m focusing on bodybuilding, I just don’t care about putting how many plates, whatever on the bar, I just want to change my physique, so it is not an obsession like it was with powerlifting but the fire is there whereas the power thing I’ve been burned out.”
Larry Wheels provided an insanely ripped physique update while preparing for his Classic Physique debut last month. If his track record is any indication, Wheels will dedicate 100% effort into bringing his best package possible.
RELATED: Larry Wheels Shares Shocking Physique Comparison Using 175 mg of Testosterone vs 500 mg
You can watch the full video below.
Published: 13 April, 2023 | 12:14 AM EDT
Powerlifter Julius Maddox Cracks 730-lb (331.1-kg) Raw Bench Press With a Long Pause
The bench press has been and will always be one of the main ways to show off strength, not only among the regular gym-goers, but also among professional athletes. However, there has never been a better bench presser than Julius Maddox and we are lucky to witness his progression live. Julius is currently attempting to become the first person to bench press 800 pounds (362.9 kilograms) in a sanctioned event, a goal he appears to be getting closer to each day. The reason for this is his most recent feat, as Julius bench pressed 730 pounds (331.1 kilograms) in training. However, as was evident in his Instagram post, Julius’ bench had a twist. He completed the rep with an unusually long pause.
Performing the bench press with a pause is not unusual, but doing so with a weight of 730 pounds (331.1 kilograms) is one of the most impressive feats of strength displayed by a human. Julius Maddox even made his pause longer than usual, which also helped him correct the uneven barbell position.
Coming down on the bench, Julius Maddox only equipped himself with a pair of wrist wraps, making his lift raw. The effect of the wrist wraps is also not performance-enhancing, since they just serve to ease the pressure on the joints.
“Bar came off uneven but adjusted with a long pause. I’m back so get your popcorn ready.”
Watch Julius Maddox’s lift here:
Related: Powerlifter Julius Maddox Fails 365-kg (804.8-lb) Raw Bench Press in His Third Official Attempt
Only one person has bench pressed over 800 pounds (362.9 kilograms), but it is only unofficial. Danial Zamani loaded the massive weight during his training session in February of 2022. However, there was no way to confirm if it actually weighed as much as he said. So, it is still unofficial.
On the other hand, Julius Maddox holds the official All-Time World Record of 782.6 pounds (355 kilograms). Julius set this record at the 2021 WRPF Hybrid Showdown III. Ever since then, Julius has been trying to cross the 800-pound (362.9-kilogram) milestone, but has been unsuccessful. He has attempted to lift this weight in three competitions so far, falling short on every occasions.
The closest that Julius Maddox has ever gotten was in May of last year, when he benched 796 pounds (361 kilograms) during his training. He is now back to progressively overloading his bench, and hopes that this time he makes it.
Julius Maddox’s powerlifting career is also fully centered on the bench press, as he has never competed in other events. However, out of the 18 sanctioned events in which he performed the bench press, he managed to rank first in all of them.
Julius Maddox’s Powerlifting Career
Personal Bests
Equip
Squat
Bench
Deadlift
Total
Dots
Raw
782.6
782.6
177.05
Competition Results
Place
Fed
Date
Competition
Division
Total
Dots
1
RPS
2022-06-04
Redcon1 Rage Wars
Pro Open
738.5
167.95
Location
USA-TN
Competition
Redcon1 Rage Wars
Division
Pro Open
Age
35
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
436.5
Bench
738.5
-804.7
738.5
GLP
118.48
1
WRPF
2021-02-20
Hybrid Showdown III
Open
782.6
177.05
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Hybrid Showdown III
Division
Open
Age
33
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
447.5
Bench
727.5
782.6
782.6
GLP
124.73
1
APF
2020-08-13
Nationals
M_SR_APF
705.5
159.24
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Nationals
Division
M_SR_APF
Age
33
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
452.7
Bench
705.5
705.5
GLP
112.1
1
APF
2020-08-13
Nationals
M_OR_APF
705.5
159.24
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Nationals
Division
M_OR_APF
Age
33
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
452.7
Bench
705.5
705.5
GLP
112.1
1
USPA
2020-06-20
Beast of the Bench
Open
722
162.46
Location
USA-IN
Competition
Beast of the Bench
Division
Open
Age
33
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
460.5
Bench
722
-800.3
722
GLP
114.22
1
XPC
2020-03-07
Arnold
Pro
770
174.51
Location
USA-OH
Competition
Arnold
Division
Pro
Age
32
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
443.6
Bench
700
770
770
GLP
123
1
WRPF
2019-11-16
Rob Hall Classic II
Open
744.1
168.53
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Rob Hall Classic II
Division
Open
Age
32
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
444.9
Bench
683.4
744.1
744.1
GLP
118.76
1
USA-UA
2019-08-30
Boss of Bosses 6
Pro Open
739.7
167.18
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Boss of Bosses 6
Division
Pro Open
Age
32
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
449.5
Bench
672.4
739.7
739.7
GLP
117.74
1
SPF
2019-06-22
Texas State Championship
Open
723.1
164.16
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Texas State Championship
Division
Open
Age
32
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
440
Bench
723.1
GLP
115.76
1
SPF
2018-11-10
Slingshot Record Breakers
Open
716.5
162.58
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Slingshot Record Breakers
Division
Open
Age
31
Equipment
Raw
Class
242.5
Weight
441
Bench
716.5
-723.1
-723.1
716.5
GLP
114.63
1
WRPF
2018-08-24
Boss of Bosses V
Pro MR-O
661.4
149.92
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Boss of Bosses V
Division
Pro MR-O
Age
31
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
443.1
Bench
661.4
-723.1
-723.1
661.4
GLP
105.68
1
RPS
2018-02-17
Valentines Day Massacre
Pro Open
705.5
160.95
Location
USA-KY
Competition
Valentines Day Massacre
Division
Pro Open
Age
30
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
430.2
Bench
705.5
GLP
113.63
1
RPS
2017-10-07
Kilo Wars
Pro Open
688.9
157.81
Location
USA-KY
Competition
Kilo Wars
Division
Pro Open
Age
30
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
422.8
Bench
688.9
GLP
111.5
1
APA
2017-07-29
Raw Wars III
Open
661.4
Location
USA-AL
Competition
Raw Wars III
Division
Open
Age
30
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Bench
661.4
1
SPF
2016-12-10
Christmas in Kentucky Classic
Open
635
145.87
Location
USA-KY
Competition
Christmas in Kentucky Classic
Division
Open
Age
29
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
417.8
Bench
635
GLP
103.12
1
SPF
2016-10-01
Nashvilles Main Event
Open
677.9
155.1
Location
USA-TN
Competition
Nashvilles Main Event
Division
Open
Age
29
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
425
Bench
677.9
GLP
109.56
1
SPF
2016-02-06
Evansville Powerlifting Classic
Open
660
151.5
Location
USA
Competition
Evansville Powerlifting Classic
Division
Open
Age
28
Equipment
Raw
Class
308.6
Weight
419
Bench
660
GLP
107.09
1
Hardcore
2015-07-16
Clash of the Titans VIII
Open
644.9
148.45
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Clash of the Titans VIII
Division
Open
Age
28
Equipment
Raw
Class
300.9
Weight
414
Bench
606.3
644.9
-672.4
644.9
GLP
104.99
Data Source: Open Powerlifting. Last Updated: April 12, 2023
Analyze Lifts
Related: Powerlifter Julius Maddox Smokes A 735 lbs (333.4 kg) Raw Bench Press In Training
Julius Maddox’s 730-pound (331.2-kilogram) long pause bench press also looked relatively easy. So, it is crazy to think that he is getting closer to the 800-pound (362.9-kilogram) bench press without showing almost any signs of struggle. Julius will now continue following his program, which might see him put up a historic lift in the near future.
Published: 12 April, 2023 | 5:19 PM EDT
Looking Back at John Claassen’s 235-Pound Raw Deadlift at 92 Years Old
It’s no secret that resistance training has positive impacts on longevity. A 2019 meta-analysis in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that “Resistance training is associated with lower mortality and appears to have an additive effect when combined with aerobic exercise.” (1) John Claassen is representative of these results.
The then 89-year-old Claassen found he moved less efficiently, and his posture was worsening with age; he sought to make a change. Now, the 96-year-old Claassen is a powerlifter training at Greysteel Strength and Conditioning in Farmington, MI. He celebrated his 90th birthday with a 100-pound deadlift and has only improved since.
In the documentary-style video below, the then 92-year-old Claassen trains for a deadlift contest at CrossFit Illumine in Niles, IL, where he competed raw. He went three for three — 97.5 kilograms (215 pounds) on his first attempt, 102 kilograms (225 pounds) on his second attempt, and 106.5 kilograms (235 pounds) on his third attempt. Check it out below:
[Related: Eleuterio Montalvo (125KG) Lifts Third-Heaviest All-Time Raw Total of 868.5 Kilograms in the Teen 18-19 Division]
During his training for his deadlift competition, Claassen performed barbell curls, deadlifts, safety-bar squats, prowler pushes, and incline bench presses. On contest day, he was filmed warming up with 90, 135, and 180 pounds on the barbell. He wore knee sleeves and a lifting belt.
The only competition I have is with myself.
Training at an older age has a plethora of health benefits. According to PLoS One, “Older athletes are capable of rigorous training programs and top performances while adjusting to changes due to biological aging.” Additionally, Olympic weightlifting and powerlifting are less likely to lead to injury than participation in contact sports. (2)(3)
A 2021 meta-analysis in the European Review of Aging and Physical Activity found that after analyzing 561 healthy older adults aged 65.8 to 82.8 with sarcopenia (loss of muscle tissue due to aging), resistance training “improves body fat mass, muscle strength, and muscle performance.” (4) Specifically, they found positive effects on body fat mass, handgrip strength, knee extension strength, and gait speed.
Train for Life
Claassen didn’t begin his weight training journey until he was 89 years old. He decided to make a change because he noticed his physicality deteriorating as his posture worsened. The change involved walking into the gym, finding a coach in a supportive environment, and some weight plates on a barbell. He’s representative that it’s never too late for fitness.
More Training Content
References
Saeidifard, F., Medina-Inojosa, J. R., West, C. P., Olson, T. P., Somers, V. K., Bonikowske, A. R., Prokop, L. J., Vinciguerra, M., & Lopez-Jimenez, F. (2019). The association of resistance training with mortality: A systematic review and meta-analysis. European journal of preventive cardiology, 26(15), 1647–1665. https://doi.org/10.1177/2047487319850718
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Aasa, Ulrika et al. “Injuries Among Weightlifters And Powerlifters: A Systematic Review”. British Journal Of Sports Medicine, vol 51, no. 4, 2016, pp. 211-219. BMJ, doi:10.1136/bjsports-2016-096037. Accessed 11 Apr 2023.
Chen, N., He, X., Feng, Y. et al. Effects of resistance training in healthy older people with sarcopenia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Eur Rev Aging Phys Act 18, 23 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s11556-021-00277-7
Featured image courtesy of Greysteel: Fitness After Fifty’s YouTube channel.
Powerlifter Samantha Rice (90KG) Sets Three New All-Time World Records At 2023 Pioneer On The Beach
The powerlifting community is made up of many talented individuals across different generations, but Samantha Rice is recognized as one of the standout athletes even amongst the most successful names. If that was even questioned, Samantha’s recent performance has definitely lifted her to a status of her own. She appeared at the 2023 USA-UA Pioneer…
Powerlifter Samantha Rice (90KG) Sets Three New All-Time World Records At 2023 Pioneer On The Beach
The powerlifting community is made up of many talented individuals across different generations, but Samantha Rice is recognized as one of the standout athletes even amongst the most successful names. If that was even questioned, Samantha’s recent performance has definitely lifted her to a status of her own. She appeared at the 2023 USA-UA Pioneer on the Beach, which took place on April 8th in Texas. Samantha competed in the raw 90-kilogram weight class, winning everything and setting three new All-Time World Records in the process.
Squat
Samantha Rice’s massive legs are not just for show, instead she is capable of squatting mind-blowing amounts of weight. So, at her recent appearance, Samantha Rice successfully completed all three of her attempts, with the heaviest one being 267.5 kilograms (589.7 pounds).
Just a few weeks ago we saw Sherine Marcelle set a new U90KG All-Time World Record Squat of 263.5 kilograms (580.9 pounds) at the 2023 WRPF Femme Fatale III. However, Samantha Rice has now reclaimed that World Record, outperforming Sherine by 4 kilograms (8.8 pounds)
250 kilograms (551.1 pounds)
260 kilograms (573.2 pounds)
267.5 kilograms (589.7 pounds) — All-Time World Record
Bench Press
As Samantha Rice moved on to the bench press, everything seemed to fall in place. However, upon trying to lift 160 kilograms (352.7 pounds) for a new Competition PR, Samantha came out unsuccessful. So, she ended up with a bench press of 155 kilograms (341.7 pounds).
150 kilograms (330.7 pounds)
155 kilograms (341.7 pounds)
Unsuccessful — 160 kilograms (352.7 pounds)
Deadlift
The final event of the day was the deadlift, one of Samantha Rice’s greatest strengths. She started off with a 250-kilogram (551.1 pounds) pull, which is significantly lighter than her opener in the past three competitions. However, she quickly added on weight, finishing with a successful 280-kilogram (617.3 pounds) deadlift.
Samantha Rice previously held the raw deadlift World Record, having locked out 275 kilograms (606.2 pounds) at the 2022 USPA Pro Raw. So, she has now managed to further improve it and make the task of breaking her record almost impossible for anyone else.
250 kilograms (551.1 pounds)
270 kilograms (595.2 pounds)
280 kilograms (617.3 pounds) — All-Time World Record
Total — 702.5 kilograms (1,548.7 pounds) — All-Time World Record
Samantha Rice also set the 687.5-kilogram (1,515.6 pounds) Total World Record at the 2022 USPA Pro Raw and now further improved. However, this time she became the first woman in the 90-kilogram weight class to Total over 700 kilograms (1,543.2 pounds).
Watch Samantha Rice’s lifts here:
Related: Powerlifter Samantha Rice Breaks Two All-Time Raw World Records At USPA Hybrid Showdown 4
Samantha Rice has been competing professionally in powerlifting for nine years now. Consequently, she appeared in 19 sanctioned competitions and won every one of those.
Samantha Rice’s Competition History
Personal Bests
Equip
Squat
Bench
Deadlift
Total
Dots
Raw
567.7
347.2
567.7
1515.7
626.68
Wraps
573.2
319.7
573.2
1471.6
608.12
Competition Results
Place
Fed
Date
Competition
Division
Total
Dots
1
USPA
2022-09-24
Pro Raw Championships
Open
1515.7
626.68
Location
USA-MO
Competition
Pro Raw Championships
Division
Open
Age
32
Equipment
Raw
Class
198.4
Weight
188.9
Squat
529.1
556.7
567.7
567.7
Bench
325.2
341.7
-353.8
341.7
Deadlift
578.7
606.3
-622.8
606.3
GLP
128.84
1
USPA
2022-01-15
Hybrid Showdown 4
Open
1501.3
616.78
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Hybrid Showdown 4
Division
Open
Age
31
Equipment
Raw
Class
198.4
Weight
191.6
Squat
496
529.1
551.2
551.2
Bench
319.7
336.2
347.2
347.2
Deadlift
573.2
603
-617.3
603
GLP
126.97
1
RPS
2021-10-30
2nd Annual Dawn of the Deadlift
Pro Open
573.2
233.3
Location
USA-VA
Competition
2nd Annual Dawn of the Deadlift
Division
Pro Open
Age
31
Equipment
Raw
Class
198.4
Weight
195.5
Deadlift
573.2
1
USPA
2021-09-11
Pioneer Open
Open
1422
591.5
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Pioneer Open
Division
Open
Age
31
Equipment
Raw
Class
198.4
Weight
186.5
Squat
485
512.6
-529.1
512.6
Bench
308.6
319.7
325.2
325.2
Deadlift
-540.1
584.2
-603
584.2
GLP
121.47
1
WRPF
2021-04-24
Kern US Open
Open
1471.6
608.12
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Kern US Open
Division
Open
Age
30
Equipment
Wraps
Class
198.4
Weight
189.2
Squat
529.1
556.7
573.2
573.2
Bench
297.6
308.6
319.7
319.7
Deadlift
529.1
556.7
578.7
578.7
1
USPA
2020-12-19
Depth Before Dishonor Open II
Open
1383.4
565.95
Location
USA-OK
Competition
Depth Before Dishonor Open II
Division
Open
Age
30
Equipment
Wraps
Class
198.4
Weight
193.3
Squat
501.6
529.1
-551.2
529.1
Bench
286.6
297.6
303.1
303.1
Deadlift
523.6
551.2
-567.7
551.2
1
USPA
2020-07-11
Pioneer Open
Open
1306.2
549.27
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Pioneer Open
Division
Open
Age
30
Equipment
Raw
Class
198.4
Weight
182.3
Squat
440.9
463
485
485
Bench
259
275.6
-286.6
275.6
Deadlift
518.1
545.6
-556.7
545.6
GLP
112.59
1
XPC
2020-03-07
Arnold
Pro
1300
549.17
Location
USA-OH
Competition
Arnold
Division
Pro
Age
29
Equipment
Wraps
Class
181.9
Weight
180.6
Squat
475
500
-525
500
Bench
245
255
265
265
Deadlift
485
510
535
535
1
USPA
2019-12-14
Depth Before Dishonor Open
Open
1201.5
500.08
Location
USA-OK
Competition
Depth Before Dishonor Open
Division
Open
Age
29
Equipment
Raw
Class
198.4
Weight
186.3
Squat
413.4
435.4
446.4
446.4
Bench
231.5
248
-259
248
Deadlift
485
507.1
-518.1
507.1
GLP
102.69
1
USPA
2019-08-03
The Tribute
Open
1174
497.17
Location
USA-TX
Competition
The Tribute
Division
Open
Age
29
Equipment
Raw
Class
181.9
Weight
179.7
Squat
429.9
Bench
242.5
Deadlift
501.6
GLP
101.79
1
USPA
2019-03-23
Clash of the Barbarians
Open
1085.8
459
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Clash of the Barbarians
Division
Open
Age
28
Equipment
Raw
Class
181.9
Weight
180.3
Squat
407.9
Bench
226
Deadlift
451.9
GLP
94
1
IPL
2018-09-14
Olympia Pro Powerlifting
Open
446.4
197.37
Location
USA-NV
Competition
Olympia Pro Powerlifting
Division
Open
Age
28
Equipment
Raw
Class
165.3
Weight
165.1
Deadlift
446.4
1
USPA
2018-03-24
Clash of the Barbarians
Open
986.6
436.16
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Clash of the Barbarians
Division
Open
Age
27
Equipment
Raw
Class
165.3
Weight
165.1
Squat
380.3
Bench
192.9
Deadlift
413.4
GLP
88.84
1
USPA
2017-10-28
Unleash The Beast
Open
1003.1
421.32
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Unleash The Beast
Division
Open
Age
27
Equipment
Raw
Class
198.4
Weight
182.8
Squat
374.8
Bench
187.4
Deadlift
440.9
GLP
86.38
1
USPA
2017-03-25
Clash of the Barbarians
Open
920.4
388.41
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Clash of the Barbarians
Division
Open
Age
26
Equipment
Raw
Class
181.9
Weight
181
Squat
341.7
Bench
176.4
Deadlift
402.3
GLP
79.57
1
USPA
2016-03-12
The Arlington Strength Raw Classic
Open
925.9
395.25
Location
USA-TX
Competition
The Arlington Strength Raw Classic
Division
Open
Age
25
Equipment
Raw
Class
181.9
Weight
176.8
Squat
330.7
Bench
187.4
Deadlift
407.9
GLP
80.83
1
NASA
2014-08-09
World Cup
wint
870.8
369.57
Location
USA
Competition
World Cup
Division
wint
Age
24
Equipment
Wraps
Class
181.9
Weight
178.9
Squat
336.2
Bench
181.9
Deadlift
363.8
1
NASA
2014-08-09
World Cup
wint
181.9
77.19
Location
USA
Competition
World Cup
Division
wint
Age
24
Equipment
Raw
Class
181.9
Weight
178.9
Bench
181.9
GLP
62.11
Data Source: Open Powerlifting. Last Updated: November 9, 2022
Analyze Lifts
Samantha Rice’s day got even better after she received $20,000 for her first place finish overall. Taking everything into consideration, this was easily one of Samantha’s greatest competitions yet. However, it also indicates that she could still put up an even greater performance.
Published: 11 April, 2023 | 11:41 AM EDT
Powerlifter Samantha Eugenie (69KG) Wins French Nationals With Two Unofficial IPF Junior World Records
France has a history of producing many world-class powerlifters. The 2023 FFForce French Junior Nationals, which happened from April 8th to 10th, showcased the sports upcoming talent. As multiple fierce battles raged on, a few unofficial World Records were also observed, adding an extra layer of excitement to the competition. Most notably, Samantha Eugenie, from…