Loading events are all about power and precision—getting awkward, heavy objects from the ground to a platform, shoulder, or over a bar. These events challenge full-body strength, stability, and explosiveness. Standards on this page are based on medley formats, max load attempts, or timed run events and follow USS weight classes and divisions.
What’s Included on This Page
Loading Events Covered:
- Sandbag to Shoulder
- Keg Load
- Natural Stone Load
- Stone Over Bar
Each lift includes performance tiers by:
- Novice
- Intermediate
- Advanced
- Elite
Performance is categorized by USS weight class and event type. Event-specific variations such as height of load or number of implements can impact difficulty and time caps.
Sandbag to Shoulder – Max Load
| Weight Class | Novice | Intermediate | Advanced | Elite |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Men – 165 lbs | 150 lbs | 175 lbs | 200 lbs | 225+ lbs |
| Men – 198 lbs | 175 lbs | 200 lbs | 225 lbs | 250+ lbs |
| Men – 242+ lbs | 200 lbs | 225 lbs | 250 lbs | 275+ lbs |
| Women – 123 lbs | 75 lbs | 100 lbs | 125 lbs | 150+ lbs |
| Women – 165 lbs | 100 lbs | 125 lbs | 150 lbs | 175+ lbs |
| Women – 198+ lbs | 125 lbs | 150 lbs | 175 lbs | 200+ lbs |
Note: Sandbag-to-shoulder events are often used in max load or for reps within a time cap. Control at the shoulder is required for full lift credit.
Keg Load – Platform or Series
| Weight Class | Novice | Intermediate | Advanced | Elite |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Men – All Classes | 150 lbs | 175 lbs | 200 lbs | 225+ lbs |
| Women – All Classes | 75 lbs | 100 lbs | 125 lbs | 150+ lbs |
Common setups include 3 to 5 keg medleys to platforms of increasing height. Standalone max load formats may appear in finals or specialty events.
Natural Stone Load – Platform or Series
| Weight Class | Novice | Intermediate | Advanced | Elite |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Men – All Classes | 150 lbs | 200 lbs | 250 lbs | 300+ lbs |
| Women – All Classes | 75 lbs | 100 lbs | 125 lbs | 150+ lbs |
Natural stones require grip adaptation and awkward handling. They are often loaded to 48″ or 52″ platforms. Weight is approximate due to stone variance.
Stone Over Bar – Max Load or Reps for Time
| Weight Class | Novice | Intermediate | Advanced | Elite |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Men – 165 lbs | 150 lbs | 175 lbs | 200 lbs | 225+ lbs |
| Men – 198 lbs | 175 lbs | 200 lbs | 225 lbs | 250+ lbs |
| Men – 242+ lbs | 200 lbs | 225 lbs | 250 lbs | 275+ lbs |
| Women – 123 lbs | 75 lbs | 100 lbs | 125 lbs | 150+ lbs |
| Women – 165 lbs | 100 lbs | 125 lbs | 150 lbs | 175+ lbs |
| Women – 198+ lbs | 125 lbs | 150 lbs | 175 lbs | 200+ lbs |
Standard bar heights: 48″ for men, 44″ for women. Events may be max load, most reps in 60 seconds, or as part of a medley. Technique and tacky usage are common variables.
Coaching Notes
- Always train both flat-back and rounded-back loading positions under supervision to prevent injury.
- Prioritize explosiveness from the floor and fluid transitions to loading position.
- Use submaximal volume to build work capacity before pushing for max loads.
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