A biomechanical comparison between strongman events and technically similar traditional weight training exercises: a narrative review

Abstract

A literature search was conducted to identify studies comparing biomechanical parameters of strongman events and technically similar traditional weight training exercises. While many similarities were identified, the farmers walk may result in reduced stress placed on the lumbar spine due to the more vertical trunk than when performing the deadlift under identical loading conditions, the heavy sled pull may be used to better develop anterior force production than the back squat, and the log lift may be used to better develop forceful hip extension during a triple extension movement than the clean and jerk. The identification of biomechanical similarities and differences between strongman and traditional weight training exercises may be used by strength and conditioning coaches to better prescribe exercises suited to an individual athletes’ conditioning requirements