Hermann Goerner, one of the all-time legendary strongmen, stated that there were three tests to assess a man’s strength.
These were:
- How much can you lift from the floor?
- How much can you push overhead?
- How much can you walk with?
To demonstrate his strongman status, 'Goerner The Mighty' once strapped a grand piano weighing 1,444 pounds on his back and walked 52 feet with it.
Then there is the story of Canadian strongman Louis Cyr hoisting a 900 pounds rail from the ground to his shoulder and lifting it.
And let's not forget Cyr’s protege, Horace Barre. This real-life Hercules carried a 1,440 pounds barbell on his shoulders for six steps.
Phew. Inspiring stuff. I guess you'd say these guys passed the three tests, don't you think?
Yet for most of us, such superhuman strength lies beyond the realm of mere mortals. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t aim to get stronger.
A great place to start, is to target your weightlifting strength standards.
What are they?
Weightlifting strength standards simply grade your one-rep max against other lifters at your bodyweight and age.
Rating your strength in this manner is really useful, as it helps you see where your strength levels might be lacking. Also, monitoring your strength standards encourages healthy competition to improve on where you currently are and where you want to be.
Curious to know if you’re strong enough?
If you want to learn more, I’ve attached a link to a weightlifting strength standards tool you can begin using right away. You’ll find 30 exercises to click on and test yourself, so have fun and see how you measure up.
Here is your link…
Until next time,
Squat for Glory!
Lee
