The Basket Deadlift is a distinctive and challenging event in Strongman competitions, requiring competitors to lift a weighted basket or crate from the ground to a standing position. This event tests the athlete’s strength, balance, and coordination due to the uneven weight distribution and the unique shape of the basket.
Event Description
In the Basket Deadlift, competitors lift a basket or crate filled with weights from the ground to a fully erect standing position. The uneven distribution of weight within the basket and its often cumbersome size make this event a true test of an athlete’s overall strength and ability to maintain control under challenging conditions.
Rules and Execution
- Objective: Lift the basket or crate for maximum weight or repetitions.
- Grip: Implements can vary greatly requiring competitors to use any number of grip options depending on its design. The use of lifting straps will depend on contest rules.
Execution:
- Starting Position: The basket starts on the ground, positioned evenly between the athlete’s feet. Competitors stand with their feet hip-width apart, knees bent, and grip the handles or edges of the basket.
- Lift: The competitor must lift the basket by extending the hips and knees simultaneously, keeping the back straight and shoulders back. The lift is complete when the athlete stands fully erect with knees locked and shoulders back. Hitching is generally allowed in Strongman competitions.
- Lockout: At the top of the lift, the athlete must demonstrate full control with an upright posture, knees locked, and shoulders back. The lift is considered successful once the judge signals approval.
- Descent: After a successful lift, the competitor must lower the basket back to the ground under control. Dropping the basket from the top position may result in disqualification or a penalty.
Good Lift Criteria:
- The lift is counted as successful if the athlete reaches a standing position with head up, shoulders back, and legs and feet in line.
- The athlete must wait for the judge’s signal before lowering the basket.
Prohibited Practices:
- The use of tacky or similar products is not allowed.
- Competitors may not drop the basket from the top position.
Allowed Equipment:
- Belt for core support
- Chalk to improve grip
- Knee wraps or sleeves
- Lifting straps
Scoring and Variations
- Maximum Weight: The primary objective is to lift the heaviest possible weight for a single repetition. Competitors typically have three attempts to achieve their maximum lift. The event may be run in a “rising bar” format, where the weight increases incrementally. If athletes reach the maximum allowable weight for this event the event could then turn into a Repetition Challenge with the maximum allowed weight.
- Repetition Challenge: Some variations of the event focus on the number of repetitions completed at a set weight within a given time limit.
- Form and Technique: Competitors should carefully review the competition rules to understand the specifics of allowed techniques, such as hitching, and any penalties for improper form.
Equipment Specifications
- Basket or Crate: The basket or crate used in this event is designed to hold weights securely while presenting an uneven distribution of mass. The size and shape of the basket can vary, adding to the challenge.
- Weight: The basket can be loaded with weights, kegs, sandbags, stones, or tires to achieve the desired competition weight. The weights can be evenly distributed to ensure balance during the lift or the athletes might be required to load the weight as part of the challenge.
The Basket Deadlift is a rigorous test of an athlete’s lifting capabilities, combining strength, grip, and stability. Its unique setup and demanding nature make it a challenging and exciting event in Strongman competitions, showcasing the raw power and technique of the competitors.
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