Strongman Circus Dumbbell Press

The Circus Dumbbell Press is a signature event in Strongman competitions, known for its unique challenge due to the oversized dumbbell used. This event tests the athlete’s upper body strength, stability, and coordination, as they must lift and press the massive dumbbell overhead with one hand.

Event Description

In the Circus Dumbbell Press, competitors lift a large, heavy dumbbell from the ground to the shoulder (clean), and then press it overhead using one arm. The oversized handle and uneven weight distribution make this event particularly challenging, requiring exceptional grip strength and pressing power.

Rules and Execution

• Objective: Lift the circus dumbbell from the ground to the shoulder (clean), and then press it overhead for maximum weight or maximum repetitions.
• Grip: Athletes use a single-handed grip due to the oversized nature of the dumbbell. The large handle, typically 2 inches or more in diameter, adds to the difficulty.

Execution:

• Starting Position: The circus dumbbell starts on the ground. Competitors stand with feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, and grip the dumbbell with one hand.
• Clean: The competitor lifts the dumbbell by extending the hips and knees simultaneously, bringing the dumbbell to the shoulder. The lift is often aided by using the opposite hand to stabilize the dumbbell during the clean.
• Press Overhead: From the shoulder, the athlete uses leg drive and upper body strength to press the dumbbell overhead with one arm. The lift is complete when the athlete stands fully erect with the lifting arm locked out and the dumbbell stabilized overhead.
• Lockout: At the top of the press, the athlete must demonstrate full control with the elbow locked and the dumbbell held steady overhead. The lift is considered successful once the judge signals approval.
• Descent: After a successful lift, the competitor must lower the dumbbell back to the ground under control. Dropping the dumbbell from overhead may result in disqualification or a penalty.

Good Lift Criteria:

• The lift is counted as successful if the athlete presses the dumbbell overhead with the elbow locked and demonstrates full control.
• The athlete must wait for the judge’s signal before lowering the dumbbell.

Prohibited Practices:

• The use of lifting straps or hooks is not allowed.
• Competitors may not drop the dumbbell from overhead.

Allowed Equipment:

• Belt for core support
• Chalk to improve grip
• Knee wraps or sleeves
• Forearm sleeves

Scoring and Variations

• Maximum Weight: The primary objective is to lift and press the heaviest possible dumbbell for a single repetition. Competitors typically have three attempts to achieve their maximum lift.
• 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 and any penalties for improper form.

Equipment Specifications

• Circus Dumbbell: The dumbbell used in this event is a large, oversized dumbbell with an extra-thick handle, typically around 2 inches or more in diameter. The dumbbell’s size and shape add to the challenge of the lift.
• Weight: The circus dumbbell is typically very heavy, with competition weights often ranging from 100 lbs (45 kg) to 200 lbs (90 kg) or more, depending on the level of the competition.

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