Natural Stone Carry

The Natural Stone Carry is a quintessential Strongman event that challenges total-body strength, endurance, and adaptability. Unlike uniform Atlas stones or standardized implements, natural stones are irregularly shaped, making them uniquely difficult to grip, lift, and carry. Competitors must adapt their technique and balance to the stone’s unpredictable shape and weight distribution, showcasing functional strength and mental toughness.

Event Description

In the Natural Stone Carry, athletes lift a heavy, irregularly shaped stone from the ground and transport it over a designated distance. Depending on the event, competitors may race to complete the course in the shortest time or carry the stone for maximum distance within a time limit. The event emphasizes raw power, grip strength, and balance as athletes work to maintain control over the challenging implement.

Equipment Specifications

Implements and Setup

Natural Stone: Uneven and irregularly shaped stone, typically sourced locally, weighing between 100 lbs and 400 lbs or more.
Carrying Distance: Typically ranges between 10 to 30 meters, but can vary depending on competition standards.

Additional Specifications

Surface: A flat or uneven surface, depending on the competition’s difficulty level.
Chalk and tacky are commonly allowed to improve grip.
Belts, knee sleeves, elbow sleeves, and forearm guards are typically permitted.

Rules and Execution

Objective

Lift the natural stone from the ground and carry it over the designated distance or for maximum distance within a set time.

Step-by-Step Execution

Setup:
- Position yourself over the stone, ensuring a secure and centered grip.
- 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, keeping the stone close to your torso.
- Maintain balance and adjust your grip as needed to accommodate the stone’s irregular shape.
Completion:
- Carry the stone the designated distance or as far as possible within the time limit.
- If the stone is dropped, lift it again to continue the carry.

Good Lift Criteria

The stone must remain under control during the carry.
Competitors must complete the designated course or achieve maximum distance within the time limit.

Prohibited Practices

Dropping the stone without attempting to lift it again.
Failing to maintain control of the stone during the carry.
Using unauthorized equipment or techniques.

Primary Muscles Worked

The Natural Stone Carry primarily targets:

Legs (Quads, Hamstrings, Glutes): For lifting the stone and driving forward during the carry.
Core: For stabilizing the torso and supporting the stone’s weight.
Back (Lats, Erector Spinae): For pulling and maintaining control of the stone.
Arms and Grip: For holding and securing the stone during the carry.

Training Tips

Adapt to Irregular Shapes: Practice lifting and carrying stones of various shapes and sizes to improve adaptability.
Build Endurance: Incorporate long-distance farmer’s carries and sled drags to prepare for sustained effort.
Improve Grip Strength: Train with thick bar holds, dead hangs, and plate pinches to handle the stone’s uneven surface.
Core Stability: Use planks, anti-rotational exercises, and weighted carries to enhance balance and control during the carry.
Simulate the Event: Train with natural stones or similar implements to refine technique and build confidence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Improper Grip: A weak or unbalanced grip can lead to dropped stones and wasted effort.
Leaning Too Far Forward or Back: Poor posture increases the risk of losing balance and control.
Rushing the Carry: Moving too quickly without proper control can result in dropped attempts.
Neglecting Core Engagement: A weak core can compromise balance and stability.

Variations and Alternatives

Timed Carries: Carry the stone as far as possible within a set time.
Weight Challenge: Use a single, heavy stone to test maximum carry distance.
Obstacle Course: Include uneven terrain or obstacles to add difficulty to the carry.

Scoring and Formats

Fastest Time: Complete the designated distance in the shortest time possible.
Maximum Distance: Carry the stone as far as possible within the time limit.
Weight Challenge: Successfully carry the heaviest stone over the designated distance.

Historical Context and Modern Implementation

The Natural Stone Carry has roots in traditional labor and historical strength challenges, where heavy stones were transported by hand over distances. In modern Strongman competitions, this event emphasizes functional strength and adaptability, highlighting an athlete’s ability to handle real-world challenges with impressive skill.

Real-Life Applications

Training for the Natural Stone Carry builds raw, functional strength, grip endurance, and balance. These skills are directly applicable to other Strongman events and real-world tasks requiring lifting and transporting heavy, awkward objects.

Conclusion

The Natural Stone Carry is a timeless Strongman event that combines strength, endurance, and adaptability. By mastering the techniques and building the necessary power, athletes can excel in this dynamic and physically demanding challenge.