Tag: Strongman
Nadia Stowers Sets World Record In Log Press And Axle Deadlift
Strongwoman Nadia Stowers recently set two world records.
It was a day to remember on Saturday for Nadia Stowers. The strongwoman set two world records during the 2021 Static Monsters Worldwide Competition. The BIG Speed and Strength gym in Fontana, CA was the site to see an incredible feat of strength from Stowers in the 82-kg weight class.
Stowers set a new mark in both the axle deadlift and log press. First, the axle deadlift was a whopping 299.4kg (660lb) followed by a log press of 130.6kg (288lb). Stowers took to Instagram to share the lifts and provide some thanks for her world-record performance.
“They say shoot for the moon and if you miss, you’ll land amongst the stars. I didn’t get my moon today but man these stars are pretty!! Think these are both the highest recorded log press and axle deadlift in a competition so far!-correct me if I’m wrong- now THAT’S exciting!
288 log-24lbs up from last year660 axle-10lbs up from last year303 log attempt!! – I’ll GET my moon!
Coached by @jacobfinertyB.I.G Online coaching available”
The log press record was previously held by Stowers but she exceeded it by 13kg. In 2019, Rebecca Cumpsty logged the world record of 115kg (253.5lb) before Stowers was able to break it at the 2021 Clash on the Coast. This is where she lifted 117.9kg (260lb). She made the lift look easy on Saturday where she was able to demolish her previous record.
Coming into the weekend, Stowers already matched the previous world record in axle deadlift but did not pass it. This was held by Kim Derks at 295kg (650.4lb). This was achieved at the 2019 SMWW competition. Now, Stowers can have the record all to herself. She previously matched the record during the 2020 SMWW competition.
Nadia Stowers recently finished eighth in the 2021 World’s Ultimate Strongwoman competition. She won the 2020 SMWW competition with a total of 408.5kg (900.6lb). That same year, Stowers became the winner at the 2020 Strongman Corporation National Championship. This is now Stowers’ third world record. The first came during the 2021 Clash on the Coast where she achieved a 97.5 (215lb) block press.
Nadia Stowers certainly put on a show over the weekend and it will be interesting to see if she can build on this performance moving forward.
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Gabriel Peña Becomes First Strongman To Achieve 500kg Axle Deadlift
Gabriel Peña set a new world record in the Axle deadlift at 500kg.
It is always incredible to see a powerlifter reach new heights and Gabriel Pena did that over the weekend. The strongman recently competed in the 2021 Static Monsters Worldwide competition. This took place on Oct. 23 and Pena put on a show that we have never seen before.
Pena stepped up to the 16.75-inch axle wearing wrist straps, a lifting belt, and knee wraps. He completed a 500kg deadlift, which is a new world record. Pena became the first strongman ever to reach this number and he took to Instagram to celebrate his achievement.
“?WORLD RECORD?
I FINALLY HAVE MY OWN WORLD RECORD!!!
1,100 lbs / 500 kg at Static Monsters Worldwide in Harker Heights, Texas ?(16.75” Axle)
This Deadlift was for you Ricky @rd_strongman_36 . It was a pleasure lifting along with your boy today, and all the other athletes who came out in your honor.You’d be damn proud.Rest in power brother.”
The video shows how much effort this incredible lift actually took. Pena displayed strong technique and shaky legs until locked out and qualified the lift.
Gabriel Pena became the first strongman to accomplish this lift. The axle bar requires a higher grip because of the way the bar is shaped. This makes it a more difficult lift than that with a standard barbell.
This is not the first time that Pena has completed an enormous lift. This was his first record-breaking lift in competition but Pena has showed some impressive lifts in the gym. In June, Pena displayed a deadlift of 408.2kg (900lb) for a triple. He has completed a partial deadlift of 481kg (1,005lb) using an axle bar back in January.
This is not territory where many strongmen has gone. Anthony Pernice currently holds the world record for partial deadlift at 550kg (1,212.5lb). Eddie Hall and Mark Felix are other names that have made a living completing huge deadlifts. Pena has to be in the conversation now that he has completed a world record of his own.
Gabriel Pena was an alternate for the 2021 World’s Strongest Man competition. This year, he looks like he has a chance to compete with some of the other top competitors in the world. Confidence should be sky-high after a lift of this caliber and Pena will only continue to improve.
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Steal These 3 Strongman Moves And Become A Massive Badass
Strength vs. Size…why you don’t have to choose.
Strongman season has come and gone; and while it was an intense showdown between “The Mountain” Thor Bjornson and 2016 winner Brian Shaw, Shaw takes the prize and now we can all go home…right? Wrong, the “World’s Strongest Man” competition is a display of strength and athleticism, rivaled nowhere else, not only do you have to be big but you have to be able to move.
I don’t know about you but that seems like something tailor made for a SPORT like bodybuilding. “Good artists borrow, great artists steal” – Picasso. Let’s make bodybuilding great again. This is a klepto’s guide to making the world’s biggest men work for you.
Exercise 1: The Sled Pull
We know you’ve heard of it before, but you’re still not doing it. The Sled pull is an awesome exercise because it’s great at building TUT (Time Under Tension). If you’ve read our previous article you know that TUT triggers muscle hypertrophy which is essential for muscle growth as well as strength gains.
What’s also great about the sled pull is that it’s fun. You can perform a myriad of exercises with a a couple of plates and a sled, the gym is your oyster. Lower body, upper body, as a warm up, or as the whole show, the sled pull is limitless and idiot proof.
*The kicker – Not only does this exercise build mass but it raises your heart rate and burns your lungs giving you a sneaky cardio workout.
Here’s a video with Strongman personality Mark Bell showing you how you can get creative.
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Exercise 2: Cheat on your barbell with an Atlas Stone
Training with Atlas Stones can give you the edge in power and strength, as well as the “I’m a badass” feeling after you’re done with a workout.
You can Use these stones to switch it up for a barbell and conduct a multitude of lifts including cleans, shoulder presses, thrusters, shouldering, deadlifts, and front squats to name a few. The form and technique required to lift an Atlas Stone over your head is impressive. It requires deeper squats, recruiting large and small muscles that you don’t normally use in order to keep the constantly shifting surface stable. If you’ve never tried it you should, it will have you feeling like a beast!
Here’s a quick video by our friends at the Onnit Academy
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Exercise 3: Get Farmhand Strong
The Farmer’s Walk is probably one of the simplest exercises known to man. You lift things up and put them down, literally. Oh, you and one more step, the walking. But while it may seem simple on the outside, be sure that you’re body is going through some complex coping methods.
First your forearm muscles are controlling the direction of the weight, then your back muscles are trying to prevent you from having your shoulders ripped off of your body, then your abs are stabilizing as well as trying to prevent you from folding in half. Oh, and did we mention your legs have to make dynamic movements with that weight, which won’t make your cardiovascular system too happy either? Simple, but deadly.
We’ve attached a video from our friends over at Buff Dudes to show you the proper way to perform the farmer’s walk.
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Do you have these strongman exercises in your routine? Let us know by hitting up our comments below or head on over to our official Facebook and Twitter.
2021 Rogue Invitational Preview & Athletes To Watch
Here are some of the top competitors to watch at the 2021 Rogue Invitational.
The 2021 Rogue Invitational is the next strongman competition that will feature some of the top names in the sport. Elite competitors will gather in Dell Diamond Stadium in Round Rock, TX from Oct. 29-31 to see who will take home the gold in this event.
This competition will be a chance for some of the top athletes to get back into the swing of things. Martins Licis, who won the 2019 World’s Strongest Man competition, will return to action along with Rob Kearney. Mateusz Kieliskowski will be back on stage for the second time since returning from an injury.
There will be $130,000 given out to the winner of the 2021 Rogue Invitational. There will be four World’s Strongest Man champions competing along with plenty of world-record holders. Here are some of the top competitors that are expected to make an appearance at the event.
List of Competitors
Brian Shaw
Tom Stoltman
Luke Stoltman
Martins Licis
Mateusz Kieliszkowski
Robert Kearney
JF Caron
Mikhail Shivlyakov
Jerry Pritchett
Oleksii Novikov
Brian Shaw
Shaw will enter the competition as the oldest competitor at 39 years old. This does not mean that he is out of the running for a podium finish — quite the opposite actually. Shaw was the runner-up at both the 2021 World’s Strongest Man and 2021 Shaw Classic. There is plenty that should motivate Shaw heading into this competition. That includes the prize money and the fact that he is going up against all younger competitors. Shaw has made 13 straight appearances in the WSM competition.
Tom Stoltman
Stoltman is the reigning World’s Strongest Man champion and is looking to make an impact at the Rogue Invitational. He received a positive COVID test that kept him out of the 2021 Europe’s Strongest Man competition but this did not slow him down. Stoltman finished second at the 2021 Giants Live World Tour Final. Stoltman is one of the top competitors in the Atlas Stone event. He will be difficult to defeat if he comes in at his peak and performs the way he is expected.
Martins Licis
Licis has not competed in two years because of different injuries. This is a chance for the former champion to get back in the field of competition and prove that he is still one of the best. Licis is the perfect combination of elite strength and technique when performing in different events. Licis has shared many training videos recently which shows his work getting back to competition. Licis is always a contender to finish on the podium. It will be interesting to see how he competes in his first competition back.
Mateusz Kieliszkowski
Kieliszkowski is another strongman coming off an injury. This is his second competition back since suffering a triceps injury that forced him to miss some time. He is another podium contender if he enters in tp shape. There are five events in this competition and Kieliszkowski will have to finish near the top of the final three or four. In his first competition back from injury, he finished second to Novikov at the 2021 World’s Ultimate Strongman contest. He is still one of the competitors to beat. The fact that he has one competition under his belt since returning from his injury is a huge factor.
Oleksii Novikov
Novikov might be viewed as the competitor to beat in this competition. The 2020 World’s Strongest Man did not qualify for the 2021 finals but has been on a roll since then. Novikov took home the prize during the 2021 Strongman Classic, 2021 World’s Ultimate Strongman contest, and the 2021 World’s Ultimate Strongman Strength Island competition. This is not included a runner-up finish at the 2021 Arnold Strongman Classic UK. Novikov is not the biggest competitor but he has become one of the best competitors. He recently posted a video training with a heavy dumbbell and referenced the Rogue Invitational. He will look to keep his streak going next weekend.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Oleksii Novikov Completes 140-kg Dumbbell Lift In Training Session
Oleksii Novikov could have his eye on the heavy dumbbell world record.
Oleksii Novikov has done plenty to cement himself as one of the best strongmen in the world. He is only continuing to improve and he shows it during training sessions. Most recently, Novikov tackled an impressive lift with a dumbbell.
The heavy dumbbell has been dominated by two athletes. Novikov and Mateusz Kieliszkowski have been at the top of the game over the years. Both competitors have their own records when it comes to heavy dumbbell. Novikov currently holds the world record with 11 reps of a 100kg (220.5lb) weight in 75 seconds. Kieliszkowski holds the world record in Cyr Dumbbell with a 145.2kg (320lb) lift. This was completed at the 2020 Arnold Strongman Classic.
In a recent training session, Novikov completed a lift that was close to that of Kieliszkowski’s record. The 2020 World’s Strongest Man winner took to Instagram to show off a 140kg (308.6lb) lift.
Oleksii Novikov referenced the 2021 Rogue Invitational in his caption. This event will take place from Oct. 29-31 in Austin, TX. This will be the first time a strongman competition will be featured at this event and it will be headlined by two of the best. Kieliszkowski is a two-time runner-up in the World’s Strongest Man competition.
There will be plenty of talent present at the event along with Novikov and Kieliszkowski. Tom Stoltman, along with his brother Luke Stoltman, are scheduled to compete. Brian Shaw will also be present at the competition looking to take home the inaugural championship.
This is the second time that these two athletes will be competing against each other since Kieliszkowski returned from a triceps injury. The first time was during the 2021 World’s Ultimate Strongman competition, where Novikov won the prize and Kieliszkowski came in second place.
The 2021 Rogue Invitational will feature five events — rogue elephant bar max deadlift, cyr dumbbell ladder, the wheel of pain, yoke carry & overhead log lift medley, and stone over hitching post. The fact that there is just five events means that competitors will have to be their best right from the start. There is not much time to take an event off.
Novikov will not have a chance to break the world record here because of the event that is scheduled. It is a speed ladder and not an event where lifters will have a chance to max out. This has not stopped Novikov from training appropriately — and making it look easy. In the video, Novikov seems to pull off the lift and have plenty left in the tank.
Oleksii Novikov has put together a winning streak against in head-to-head battles and it will be interesting to see if he can put another win together. He will certainly be one of the favorites entering the weekend looking to make an impact.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
2021 Strongman Corporation Open Results
Here are the full results from the 2021 Strongman Corporation Open.
The 2021 Strongman Corporation Open took place this weekend with competitors vying for qualification to the 2022 Arnold Strongman World Championships. The event took place from Oct. 15-16 in Salem, VA at the Salem Civic Center.
There were a total of 13 divisions in the men’s and women’s lightweight, middleweight, and heavyweight sections. Competitors battled for qualification in six events — the rogue max log press, rogue bag toss, gorilla strength wheelbarrow deadlift, rogue axel clean & press, rogue yoke walk, and gorilla strength wheelbarrow race.
At the end of the event, there were 15 competitors who earned their proceeds. The full results have been announced and you can find the full breakdown below!
Lightweight Women
The top four competitors in the up to 120 pound division earned qualification to the Arnold Strongman World Championships while the top five in the up to 140 pound division earned theirs.
Up To 120 Pounds
Cynthia Martinez — 22 points
Kiara Medina — 14.5 points
Aimee Clickner — Eight points
Nicole Recchia — 5.5 points
Up To 140 Pounds
Kira Wrixon — 175.5 points — Earned Pro Card
Emma Pruitt — 163 points — Earned Pro Card
Jessica Helms — 161 points — Earned Pro Card
Jamie Navarro — 155 points
Nadia Morrison — 150.5 points
Middleweight Women
The top five competitors in both the up to 160 pound and 180 pound divisions earned qualification to the Arnold Strongman World Championships.
Up To 160 Pounds
Nancy Johnson — 64 points — Earned Pro Card
Mary Colasanto — 60 points — Earned Pro Card
Christy Senay — 46 points
Evelyn Valdez — 44 points
Jenny Draper — 37 points
Up To 180 Pounds
Jessica Mitchell — 88 points — Earned Pro Card
Cassandra Moore — 76.5 points
Katie Gutwald — 74 points
Kendra Danzer — 73 points (T-fourth)
Jamie Schamma — 73 points (T-fourth)
Heavyweight Women
The top two competitors in the up to 200 pound division earned qualification to the Arnold Strongman World Championships while the top five from the over 200 pound division earned the honor.
Up To 200 Pounds
Ashley Sorensen — Eight points
Katherine “Kitty” Cross — Seven points
Over 200 Pounds
Shaun Hairston — 109 points — Earned Pro Card
Pauline De Pinto — 98.5 points — Earned Pro Card
Colleen Meredith — 95.5 points — Earned Pro Card
Leilani Brown — 95 points
Jennifer Lyle — 94 points
Lightweight Men
The up to 150 pound division had just two competitors. The up to 175 pound division had 27 competitors vying for the top five spots.
Up To 150 Pounds
Peter Herguth — Eight points
Lauren Cohen — Three points
Up To 175 Pounds
Andrew Hanus — 158 points
William “Cody” Abell — 147 points
Quinn Romanasko — 128 points
Nicholas Boyce — 126 points
Sebastian Kluger — 125 points
Middleweight Men
The top five athletes in each of the next two divisions gained qualification to the Arnold Strongman World Championships.
Up To 200 Pounds
Charles Pierce — 92.5 points
Daniel Zimmer — 79 points
John Robinson — 69 points
Andrew Pepiot — 69 points
Marshall Buckler — 61 points
Up To 231 Pounds
Daniel Hughes — 274.5 points — Earned Pro Card
Tyler Young — 265.5 points — Earned Pro Card
Mark Jones — 264.5 points — Earned Pro Card
Matthew McQuiston — 256.5 points
Ryan Saxton — 256 points
Heavyweight Men
The top five athletes in each of the next two divisions gained qualification to the Arnold Strongman World Championships.
Up To 265 Pounds
James Ortmann — 56.5 points
Sean Deem — 54.5 points
David Elmore — 53 points
Garrett Payne — 50.5 points
Steven Spencer — 37 points
Up To 300 Pounds
Clayton Desilva — 107 points
David Tinsman — 94 points
Brian Kichton — 93.5 points
Thomas Sroka — 90 points
Alex Stults — 88 points
Over 300 Pounds
Jack Plankers — 278.5 points — Earned Pro Card
Thomas Evans — 269.5 points — Earned Pro Card
Nick Davis — 242.5 points — Earned Pro Card
Lucas Hatton — 237 points
Matthew Webb — 235 points
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Everything To Know About Strongman Open Nationals Competition 2021
Get all your information for this Strongman event here!
The 2021 Strongman Open Nationals content is set to kick off this weekend with competitors already flocking to the Salem Civic Center in Salem, Virginia to do their final preparations. With each athlete ready for the challenge, and their eyes set on that top prize, Strongman Corporation has worked diligently to promote and execute this event. Salem is set to be a great host and we at Generation Iron have all the information you need to know about the 2021 Open Nationals competition.
This event will see a great field of male and female athletes competing in a variety of divisions, each with the goal of taking that top podium spot. A total of 6 events spanning across two days gives these strongmen and strongwomen plenty of time to feel out the events, and the competition, and make their moves to that top prize.
Strongman Corporation covers and promotes all things related to Strongman with the goal of providing quality Strongman competitions for the public while being fair to every competitor. Committed to raising the bar and holding only the best and most fair competitions, Strongman Corporation honors their promise to members with reliable and genuine information to put the sport in the spotlight it deserves.
Important Information Breakdown
This event is shaping up to be an exciting event full of Strongman action with top competitors ready to put on a show. All of the information you need to know is below!
Date: Friday, October 15 to Saturday, October 16
Time: Friday- 9:30 am for female athletes, 2:00 pm for male athletes
Saturday- 9:30 am for female athletes, 1:00 pm for male athletes
Location: Salem Civic Center, Salem, VA
Address- 1001 Roanoke Blvd, Salem, VA 24153
Divisions: Lightweight Women, Middleweight Women, Heavyweight Women, Lightweight Men, Middleweight Men, Heavyweight Men
Number of Events: 6 Events
Tickets: Tickets for the Banquet are no longer available, but click for Spectator Tickets here!
How To Watch Strongman Open Nationals Competition
Open Nationals 2021 will be providing a premium live stream for those who want to follow along and see all this action play out. We at Generation Iron will be providing the live stream link so you can stay on top of it all and never miss a beat!
Click for the Day 1 Live Stream link here!
Click for the Day 2 Live Stream link here!
Open Nationals Competition Events
This competition will see 6 total events over a two day period. Day one will see competitors try their hand at the log press, wheelbarrow deadlift, and sandbag toss over bar. On the second day, athletes will perform the axle clean and press, wheelbarrow race, and the yolk walk. The scores for all 6 events will be tallied and a winner will be crowned.
Day One Competition
Log Press
In the log press, athletes will complete the lift, only dropping the weight on the judges down command. Failure to lift and hold the weight will result in the end of this round for that competitor.
Wheelbarrow Deadlift
Athletes will have a set amount of time to deadlift as many reps as possible using the wheelbarrow deadlift implement for an added challenge.
Sandbag Toss Over Bar
Standing at a set distance away from the bar, athletes will throws sandbags from lightest to heaviest in weight over the bar, all while it adjusts in height.
Day 2 Competition
Axle Clean and Press
In a set amount of time, athletes will complete a many reps as possible , however, control must be had at all times with this event. For example, if the axle is dropped from overhead, it can lead to a deduction of a point.
Wheelbarrow Race
In a test of endurance, competitors will carry a wheelbarrow a set distance. While this is still a test of strength and will, endurance plays a key role in this event, similar to the yoke walk.
Yolk Walk
Competitors will be required to carry a yoke with set weights a certain distance before the time limit is reached. Like the Wheelbarrow Race, this is taxing on the lungs and requires all around good training to get there.
Wrap Up
The 2021 Open Nationals competition is just about to kick off and Strongman athletes and fans alike are equally excited. In what will be an great show and a real test of strength, endurance, and will for these athletes, Strongman Corporation has worked hard to promote and execute this event. We will have all the results ready for you, as well as the live stream link, so stay tuned to Generation Iron for all your event needs and get ready for yet another awesome Strongman show.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of Strongman Corporation Instagram
America’s Strongest Woman 2021 Results
Get all the results you need here for America’s Strongest Woman 2021!
With the 2021 America’s Strongest Woman contest coming to a close, the results are in and the title of America’s Strongest Woman has been handed down. After a great event held in Orlando, Florida, these women put their strength and sheer will to the test as each sought that top spot. The results are in and America’s Strongest Woman 2021 has been crowned.
Strongman Corporation covers and promotes all things related to Strongman with the goal of providing quality Strongman competitions for the public while being fair to every competitor. Committed to raising the bar and holding only the best and most fair competitions, Strongman Corporation honors their promise to members with reliable and genuine information to put the sport in the spotlight it deserves.
America’s Strongest Woman Event Recap
With 5 total events this year, competitors competed in three divisions being Lightweight Women (up to 140 lbs.), Middleweight Women (140.8 lbs. up to 180 lbs.), and Heavyweight Women. These strongwomen grabbed their chalk, hooked up their lifting belts, and got ready to take on these grueling events.
Max Log Press
In the max log press, each athlete had 30 seconds to complete the lift and could not drop before the judges down command.
Farmer’s Walk With Turn
Athletes were required to carry the farmer’s implement 40-feet, make a turn, and carry it back 40-feet with time stopping after they crossed the line.
Yoke Walk Sandbag Medley
Competitors were required to carry the yoke 40-feet and stack light and heavy sand bags onto the yoke with each run in a time limit of 60 seconds.
Sandbag Toss
The sandbag toss saw athletes line up about 10-feet from the bar and throw the bags over from lightest to heaviest, with bags adjusting in weight based on division.
Three Bar Deadlift
For this event, athletes were required to deadlift three separate weights with a 60 second time limit to complete one rep of each weight.
America’s Strongest Woman 2021
We at Generation Iron were on top of this event from start to finish, bringing you the best for results and information. This year’s America’s Strongest Woman was an exciting event and as Strongman has grown in popularity as a sport, these strongwomen are getting the attention they deserve for their hard work and sheer dedication to the sport. With more attention, it means more public interest, and more strongmen and strongwomen participating in the sport overall.
Here are the results for America’s Strongest Women 2021.
America’s Strongest Women 2021 Overall Results
Wrap Up
America’s Strongest Woman 2021 proved to be an exciting and engaging competition full of Strongman action as these strongwomen took their places and fought to be crowned champion. Orlando was a great host and with the help of Strongman Corporation, brought even more attention to this sport as more and more people become aware of what Strongman really is. While this event just ended, we are all excited to see what next year brings.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of Strongman Corporation Instagram
Best Knee Sleeves For Powerlifting & Compression (Updated 2021)
The best bodybuilding knee sleeves and best knee sleeves for lifting can greatly enhance compression and support for all those big lifts.
Our knees may be tough joints. They do support our large frames all day after all. But even the strongest things start to wear down and that loss of stamina could lead to imbalances and poor support ultimately leading to injury. Knee sleeves are incredibly useful tools when it comes to weightlifting, powerlifting, and Strongman, where so much load is compressed onto your poor knee joints.
We’ve put together a list of the Best Knee Sleeves for 2021 to help with your powerlifting, bodybuilding, and other lifting needs. The right knee sleeves can help you feel less vulnerable and stronger to tackle all of those big lifts.
Best Knee Sleeves For 2021
Best Overall Knee Sleeve
The best overall knee sleeve will work to offer great compression and support and allow for functional movements and more endurance based workouts, while still being useful for heavy lifts.
SBD 5mm Weightlifting Knee Sleeve
SBD brings this amazing weightlifting knee sleeve designed to minimize the risk of injury while working to maximize performance. Sold as a pair, this 5mm high grade neoprene and four-way stretch fabric has a reinforced seam constructed to last a long time with continuous use. An anti-microbial inner lining is matched by an abrasion resistant exterior lining for optimal protection against wear and tear. Registered and developed with help from elite athletes, coaches and other health professionals, this sleeve is approved for all competitive use including USPL, IPF, IWF, and was approved for the USPA in 2021.
SBD 5mm Weightlifting Knee Sleeve is made of 5mm high grade neoprene and four-way stretch fabric with reinforced seam construction for the best in injury prevention.
Pros
Top quality knee sleeve designed from elite athletes and other professionals
Very durable and built to last, the high-grade neoprene is reinforced to tackle wear and tear
Approved for all competition is a huge plus
Cons
It is on the expensive side for knee sleeves
You can only buy directly from their website
Price: $90.00
Check out our individual review for SBD Knee Sleeves here!
Best Bodybuilding Knee Sleeve
The best bodybuilding knee sleeves will work to provide support for those movements essential to sculpting and toning without the fear of injury or unwanted knee pain.
Mava Sports 7mm Knee Sleeve
This knee sleeve from Mava offers a 7mm compression sleeve to work on full support to ensure injury prevention, promote muscle and joint health, and offer optimal stability. Anatomically shaped for performance, they provide the right amount of support and compression to offer maximum comfort and relieve stiffness and soreness after any big lift. These strong neoprene knee sleeves will allow you to achieve more from all of your sessions. USPA approved, Mava also prides themselves on great customer service.
Mava Sports 7mm Knee Sleeve works to provide full support and injury prevention for the best comfort to relieve stiffness and soreness.
Pros
Offers great support and maximum comfort so your lifts are more mobile and aren’t stunted by a bulky sleeve
Being USPA approved is a bonus for competitors
Cons
The sizing tends to be slightly off
Being thick may provide comfort but it also doesn’t wick moisture away as well as it could
Price: $33.99
Best Knee Sleeve For Squats
Squatting can cause real discomfort at times, especially with your knees responsible for holding and moving so much weight. The best knee sleeves for squats will help with pain and swelling so you never have to halt those PRs.
Rehband Rx 5mm Knee Sleeve
Rehband Rx knee sleeve allows you to feel more confident and secure with any activity with this classic 5mm design to provide knee support, comfort, flexibility, and compression. The 3-D contoured design is based on the contour of the leg so it is an anatomical fit instead of an angled tube. Providing reinforcement all around the knee, it allows for optimal range of motion for whatever your sport. As a dependable creator of knee sleeves since 1955, Rehband always keeps the customer in mind and these are the best knee sleeves for squats.
Rehband Rx 5mm Knee Sleeve is a 3-D contoured design for the best reinforcement and optimal range of motion.
Pros
The 3-D design allows for a more comfortable fit
The range of motion is great for all lifts
Made from a trusted and reputable company
Cons
Sizing tends to be off which can cause discomfort
Tend to be a slightly thicker than others so circulation may become a problem
Price: $23.95-$51.83
Best Knee Sleeve For Powerlifting
Powerlifters are always putting their bodies under immense amount of stress with massive weight and the same movements. The best knee sleeves for powerlifting will provide comfort, support, and durability for all of those massive lifts.
SBD 7mm Knee Sleeve
SBD offers another great compression sleeve with their 7mm knee sleeve. Sold as a pair, these are the market leading knee joint support products for strength sports and strength training by top athletes in powerlifting and Strongman. Designed to minimize the risk of injury while also aiding in performance, this registered and patented design is developed by elite athletes and other health and fitness professionals. The 7mm high grade neoprene knee sleeve is approved by USAPL, IPF, and USPA, and is compliant with IWF.
SBD 7mm Knee Sleeve is great for joint support and reducing injury out of this high grade neoprene sleeve.
Pros
Top-tier product in terms of quality and longevity
Very effective design from elite athletes and other professionals
Fully approved for competitive use is a huge plus
Cons
This sleeve is on the expensive side
Only available through their website
Price: $82.50
Check out our individual review for SBD Knee Sleeves here!
Best Knee Sleeve For Warmth & Compression
The right knee sleeve for warmth and compression will be comfortable and make you feel as though you are getting everything you want and more out of a great knee sleeve to aid in all things exercise related for better support, blood flow, and protection.
Sling Shot 7mm Knee Sleeves By Mark Bell
Mark Bell brings Sling Shot 7mm knee sleeves to the table with years of experience as a professional powerlifter, coach, and fitness expert. This strong 7mm thick level 3 neoprene provides for compression with solid rebound to really maximize weightlifting loads. The patented design allows for comfort and convenience and is great for providing warmth to keep you lose and limber yet stable. The benefit of promoting body awareness is great as it works to assist neighboring parts of your body as well. Overall, the added stability will promote confidence with lifting more weight.
Sling Shot 7mm Knee Sleeves By Mark Bell is a strong and thick neoprene sleeve great for comfort and convenience.
Pros
They are lighter than others but offer the same support
Level 3 neoprene is high quality and ensures durability
They are top of the list for warmth
Cons
Expensive product and are of average quality overall when compared to others in the similar price range
Price: $83.00
Benefits Of Knee Sleeves
Knee sleeves have the potential to greatly influence your lifts and give you confidence in knowing you are protecting those vulnerable joints. Benefits of knee sleeves include:
Add nice compression: By adding compression, you work to reduce pain and decrease swelling.
Increase blood flow: This will boost circulation for better movements and less pain in those vulnerable joints by preventing lactic acid build up (1).
Ensure efficient recovery: More healthy blood and oxygen flow, with less lactic acid build up, leads to better recovery for faster bounce back (2).
Support muscles: Knee sleeves support the muscles and decrease the number of muscular vibrations to assist in muscle fatigue and improve athletic performance (3).
Prevents future injury: By protecting those vulnerable spots, you preemptively work to prevent future injuries.
Choosing The Right Knee Sleeve
When looking at the right knee sleeve, you want to look at a number of factors including:
Your knee sleeve should fit just right and be snug. You don’t want it to be too tight so that it restricts movement and blood flow, but you also don’t want it to be too loose so it doesn’t give you the most in terms of intended use. The right fit will be snug and comfortable while also feeling supportive.
Looking for comfortable material is vital because you are moving and working out in this sleeve constantly. You don’t want to suffer through some uncomfortable and hard to use material. Finding the best option may require trial and error for comfort but the right one is out there.
Depending on the knee sleeve, the right amount of padding can ensure comfort and fit, and while some may be bulky, there are those more sleek looks that still provide great padding and support. This can affect your mobility and overall movement.
Knee sleeves typically come in 3mm, 5mm, and 7mm and knowing which one will work for you is important when looking to choose. A 3mm sleeve is great for those endurance athletes since it is lighter and helps with the necessary movements. For those all around fitness folks, a 5mm sleeve works great for it is thick but still allows for proper movements with physical activity. Finally, the 7mm sleeve offers additional support and is used by heavy lifters who rely on their knees to hold a lot of weight.
How We Choose
When looking at the best knee sleeves, we first made sure the overall quality of the sleeve was there. You deserve to have the best quality knee sleeve possible and the material and durability are what matter most, especially with the wear and tear brought on by exercise. We then look at the additional features like padding, overall fit and feel, and any other additional bonuses that come with the respective knee sleeve. We finally look at price. We know fitness equipment can get expensive but it is important to find the right knee sleeve at an affordable price.
FAQ Section
What is the best knee sleeve?
SBD 5mm Weightlifting Knee Sleeve. This amazing weightlifting knee sleeve is designed to minimize the risk of injury while working to maximize performance. Sold as a pair, this 5mm high grade neoprene and four-way stretch fabric has a reinforced seam constructed to last a long time with continuous use.
Is a knee sleeve the same as a brace?
Knee sleeves are not knee braces as sleeves work to provide compression and support to the knee and surrounding muscles, tendons, and ligaments during exercise or everyday activities to protect this vulnerable joint.
How tight should my knee sleeve be?
You want your knee sleeve to be a firm fit while not totally limiting and restricting blood flow. Too tight can be uncomfortable and too loose just won’t do what it is supposed to.
Wrap Up
The best knee sleeves will work wonders on your knee pain by offering support and stabilization all while boosting confidence and promoting more weight in your lifts. Don’t let vulnerable joints or imbalanced muscles take away from what could be a quality lift. Check out these best knee sleeves for maximum comfort and support and keep yourself as safe as possible while still seeing big gains.
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References
Vaile, Joanna; Stefanovic, Brad; Askew, Christopher D. (2016). “Effect of lower limb compression on blood flow and performance in elite wheelchair rugby athletes”. (source)
Husmann, Florian; Mittlmeier, Thomas; Bruhn, Sven; Zschorlich, Volker; Behrens, Martin (2018). “Impact of Blood Flow Restriction Exercise on Muscle Fatigue Development and Recovery”. (source)
Raabe, Margaret E.; McNally, Michael P.; Chaudhari, Ajit M. W. (2017). “The Effect Of Compression Tights On Muscle Vibration And Fatigue From A High-Intensity Run”. (source)
2021 Arnold Strongman Classic UK Results: Evan Singleton Wins Inaugural Event
Evan Singleton narrowly defeated Oleskii Novikov to take home the title.
The Arnold Sports Festival UK took place over the weekend in Birmingham, England. The weekend began with Nathan De Asha taking home the prize in Men’s Open during the bodybuilding contest and it ended with Evan Singleton winning the inaugural 2021 Arnold Strongman Classic UK.
A group of the best competitors in the world put on a show in England that will keep this event as a must-watch over the years. Singleton narrowly defeated former World’s Strongest Man Oleksii Novikov, who finished second. Trey Mitchell took him the bronze in the competition.
There were a total of five events that took place for competitors to take part in. Below, you can find a full breakdown of the final standings and event-by-event coverage.
2021 Arnold Strongman Classic UK Results
First Place – Evan Singleton — 42 points
Second Place – Oleksii Novikov — 42 points
Third Place – Trey Mitchell — 36.5 points*
Fourth Place – J.F. Caron — 36.5 points
Fifth Place – Mark Felix — 28 points
Sixth Place – Andy Black — 25 points
Seventh Place – Nedzmin Ambeskovic — 19 points
Eighth Place – Pa O’Dwyer — 14 points
Ninth Place – Luke Stoltman — Four points
Tenth Place – Tom Stoltman — Three points
Singleton was named the winner after coming out on top in the tie-breaker. Luke Stoltman withdrew after the first event and his brother, Tom, was out just one event later.
Hercules Hold
Mark Felix — 81.62 seconds
Evan Singleton — 78.11 seocnds
JF Caron — 74.27 seconds
The Hercules hold was the first event of the competition. Mark Felix is known as the best in this event and he was able to take home the win here. Felix currently holds the world record in the Hercules hold of one minute and 32 seconds.
Frame Carry
Oleksii Novikov — 7.35 seconds
Evan Singleton — 8.50 seconds
Mark Felix — 9.75 seconds
The frame carry tested which competitor could carry 400kg (881lb) a distance of 20 meters in the fastest time. Novikov used his impressive grip and brute strength to win this event by over one second.
Axle Bar Deadlift for Reps
Oleksii Novikov — Eight reps
Trey Mitchell — Seven reps
Evan Singleton — Five reps
JF Caron — Five reps
Nedzmin Ambeskovic — Five reps
Up next, the athletes were given 60 seconds to deadlift 360kg (793.4lb) for as many reps as possible in the time given. Novikov won his second-straight event besting Mitchell by a single rep. This is where it looked like Novikov might win the 2021 Arnold Strongman Classic UK.
Dumbbell Press
Oleksii Novikov — Eight reps
Evan Singleton — Seven reps
Trey Mitchell — Six reps
JF Caron — Six reps
Novikov won another event in the dumbbell press and this is one where he holds the world record. Novikov pressed the 100kg (220.5lb) weight eight times to take home the victory. Singleton finished just one behind and remained alive in the competition.
Atlas Stones
Andy Black — Five stones in 18.28 seconds
Trey Mitchell — Five stones in 18.41 seconds
Evan Singleton — Five stones in 19.44 seconds
Neither Singleton or Novikov finished first in the event but they still led in points. Andy Black completed all five stones in 18.28 seconds. Singleton finished third at 19.44 seconds but this was still one second faster than Novikov. Because of the tiebreaker being the final event, Singleton was named the winner after his head-to-head victory over Novikov.
Congratulations to Singleton for winning the 2021 Arnold Strongman Classic UK. For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.