Atlas Stone Carry and Load

The Atlas Stone Carry and Load is a challenging Strongman event that combines two essential strength skills: carrying a heavy, awkward stone over a designated distance and then loading it onto a platform or into a specific target area. This event emphasizes total-body strength, grip endurance, and stamina while testing an athlete’s ability to manage the unique dynamics of spherical stones.

Event Description

In the Atlas Stone Carry and Load, competitors lift an Atlas stone from the ground, carry it over a set distance, and load it onto a platform or into a designated area. The spherical shape and weight of the stone make this event uniquely difficult, requiring strength, balance, and core stability. Depending on the competition, athletes may carry a single stone multiple times or perform the task with multiple stones of ascending weight.

Equipment Specifications

Implements and Setup

Atlas Stones: Heavy, round stones made of concrete or steel, weighing anywhere from 100 lbs to 400+ lbs.
Carrying Distance: Typically ranges from 10 to 30 meters, depending on competition standards.
Loading Platform/Target: Platforms or target areas may vary in height and design, with common heights ranging from 42” to 56”.

Additional Specifications

Chalk and tacky are commonly allowed to improve grip.
Belts, knee sleeves, elbow sleeves, and forearm guards are typically permitted.
Built-up shoes or objects in the belt to create a “shelf” are not allowed.

Rules and Execution

Objective

Lift the Atlas stone, carry it over the designated distance, and load it onto the platform or into the target area as quickly as possible.

Step-by-Step Execution

Setup:
- Position yourself over the stone, ensuring your grip is secure and centered.
- Engage your core and legs to prepare for the lift.
Lift to Lap:
- Pull the stone to your lap, stabilizing it before initiating the carry.
Carry the Stone:
- Stand upright and begin walking the designated distance. Maintain a strong grip and keep the stone close to your body to ensure balance.
Load the Stone:
- Upon reaching the platform or target, use your legs and core to lift the stone and place it in the designated area.

Good Lift Criteria

The stone must be carried the full distance and loaded into the designated target area.
The stone must remain under control during the load; a dropped stone must be reset and loaded again.
Athletes must complete the event within the specified time limit.

Prohibited Practices

Dropping the stone during the carry without recovery.
Failing to load the stone securely into the target area.
Using unauthorized equipment or techniques.

Primary Muscles Worked

The Atlas Stone Carry and Load primarily targets:

Legs (Quads, Hamstrings, Glutes): For lifting and carrying the heavy load.
Core: For maintaining stability and balance during the carry.
Back (Lats, Erector Spinae): For supporting the stone and assisting in the load.
Arms and Grip: For holding and controlling the stone.

Training Tips

Master the Lift to Lap: Perfect the initial lift to lap position for better control during the carry.
Build Endurance: Incorporate farmer’s carries and long sled drags to improve stamina.
Grip Strength Training: Use thick bar holds, dead hangs, and plate pinches to develop a strong grip.
Core Stability: Train with anti-rotational exercises like Pallof presses and planks to enhance balance under load.
Simulate the Event: Practice carrying and loading with actual stones or similar implements to refine technique.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Improper Grip: Starting with a weak or unbalanced grip can lead to dropping the stone.
Leaning Back Excessively: Overarching the back during the carry increases injury risk and reduces efficiency.
Neglecting Core Engagement: A weak core can compromise balance and lead to loss of control.
Rushing the Load: Failing to stabilize the stone before loading can cause it to fall, wasting valuable time.

Variations and Alternatives

Multiple Stone Carry and Load: Use several stones of ascending weight for a greater challenge.
Timed Carry: Carry a single stone as far as possible within a time limit before loading it.
Distance Challenge: Focus solely on carrying the stone over an extended distance without the loading phase.

Scoring and Formats

Fastest Time: Complete the carry and load in the shortest time possible.
Maximum Weight: Carry and load the heaviest stone successfully.
Repetitions: Carry and load the same stone as many times as possible within a time limit.

Historical Context and Modern Implementation

The Atlas Stone Carry and Load originates from traditional feats of strength, where heavy stones were moved and placed for practical purposes or as demonstrations of power. In modern Strongman competitions, this event combines the iconic imagery of the Atlas stone with a dynamic element, testing both strength and endurance.

Real-Life Applications

Training for the Atlas Stone Carry and Load builds functional strength and stamina, improving performance in other Strongman events and real-world tasks requiring heavy lifting and carrying.

Conclusion

The Atlas Stone Carry and Load is a quintessential Strongman event that demands strength, endurance, and precision. By mastering the techniques and building the necessary power and stamina, athletes can excel in this dynamic and visually impressive challenge.