Double Overhand Axle Bar Deadlift

The Double Overhand Axle Bar Deadlift is a grip strength challenge, requiring athletes to lift a thick-handled axle bar using a double overhand grip. This event emphasizes pure grip endurance, wrist stability, and maximal deadlift capability without the assistance of mixed or hook grip techniques. Competitors are given three attempts to lift the heaviest weight possible while maintaining proper form.

Equipment & Setup

Axle Bar & Loading Pin

A standardized axle bar must be used for all competitors. [Ironmind Axle Bar or bar with the same configurations]
The axle bar must have a diameter of approximately 2 inches (50mm).
The bar must be smooth with no knurling, ensuring a true grip challenge.
Standard calibrated plates must be used for weight increments.

Grip & Hand Placement

Athletes must use a double overhand grip (both palms facing toward the body).
Hook grip, mixed grip, or any alternative grips are prohibited.
Chalk is allowed, but straps, gloves, tacky, or adhesives are prohibited.
Hands must remain outside the legs—no sumo stance allowed.

Competition Surface & Positioning

The lift must be performed on a flat, stable surface.
The bar must start completely on the ground before each attempt.
The athlete must stand fully upright with a locked-out position to complete the lift.

Lift Execution & Judging Standards

✅ Successful Lift Criteria

The athlete must grip the axle bar using a double overhand grip.
The bar must be lifted fully off the ground to a standing, upright position.
The athlete must achieve full hip and knee extension with shoulders back.
The athlete must hold the lift for at least 2 seconds before lowering.
The weight must be lowered under control—no dropping.

❌ No-Lift Criteria (Disqualifications)

🚫 The bar is not lifted to full lockout.
🚫 The grip fails before achieving the hold for 2 seconds.
🚫 Hook grip, mixed grip, or alternate grips are used.
🚫 The bar is dropped from the top instead of controlled descent.
🚫 The athlete leans excessively or fails to stand fully upright.

Competition Format & Scoring

Lift Attempts & Best Lift Selection

Athletes receive three attempts to achieve their heaviest successful lift.
Weight must increase with each attempt—no reductions after a missed lift.
The heaviest successful lift is recorded as the athlete’s final score.

Tiebreakers

If two or more athletes achieve the same top lift, the tie is broken by:
1️⃣ Fewest failed attempts throughout all rounds.
2️⃣ Lowest body weight (lighter athlete wins).

Equipment Rules & Fair Play

✅ Allowed:

Chalk (liquid or powder).
Elbow sleeves (non-supportive).
Weightlifting belt (must not assist grip).

🚫 Not Allowed:

Lifting straps, hooks, or gloves.
Tacky, adhesives, or grip-enhancing substances.
Modified or personal axle bars (only the standardized bar will be used).

Judging Process & Online Submission Rules

For In-Person Competitions

One head judge and up to two additional judges may oversee each lift.
The judge will signal a successful lift after the 2-second hold.
Final lift count is recorded after each attempt.

For Online Competitions

Full-body video required, showing the athlete from the side or front.
The video must include:
1. Athlete stating their name, body weight, and chosen weight attempt.
2. A clear weigh-in of the bar and weights.
3. An uninterrupted recording of the entire lift attempt.
Video submissions must be uploaded to YouTube by the submission deadline of the challenge.

Training Considerations for Competitors

Grip endurance training—train with fat bar grips, axle lifts, and heavy holds.
Progressive loading—slowly increase weight to build maximal grip strength.
Forearm & wrist conditioning—incorporate lever lifts and wrist flexion drills.
Deadlift technique refinement—ensure proper hip and back positioning for maximum efficiency.

Final Thoughts

The Double Overhand Axle Bar Deadlift is a true test of grip power, wrist stability, and raw pulling strength. With a standardized axle bar and strict grip requirements, this event ensures fair and competitive conditions for all athletes.