The Thomas Inch Dumbbell Challenge is a grip strength challenge that tests an athlete’s ability to lift or hold the legendary Thomas Inch-style dumbbell—a thick-handled, globe-ended dumbbell known for its brutal grip demands. This challenge requires immense hand strength, wrist stability, and full-body coordination.
Athletes can compete in one of two challenge formats:
- Max Lift Challenge: Competitors have three attempts to lift the heaviest possible Inch Dumbbell.
- Hold for Time Challenge: Competitors hold a scaled weight for as long as possible using Adjustable Inch Dumbbells.
Equipment & Setup
Thomas Inch Dumbbell Specifications
- The standard Thomas Inch Dumbbell has a 2.38-inch diameter handle and globe-shaped ends.
- For the Max Lift Challenge, athletes use fixed-weight Inch Dumbbells or competition-approved adjustable models.
- For the Hold for Time Challenge, athletes use Adjustable Inch Dumbbells loaded to a predetermined weight per division.
- All dumbbells must be unaltered—no knurling, grip modifications, or added textures.
Thomas Inch Dumbbell Challenge Scaling System for Divisions/Weight Classes
| Division | Weight Class | Hold Weight (Endurance) |
|---|---|---|
| Teen (13-16, 17-19) | 123 & Under | M – 55 lbs / W -TBD |
| 124 – 148 | M – 65 lbs / W -TBD | |
| 149+ | M – 75 lbs / W -TBD | |
| Junior (20-23) | 123 & Under | M – 65 lbs / W -TBD |
| 124 – 165 | M – 75 lbs / W -TBD | |
| 166+ | M – 85 lbs / W -TBD | |
| Open (Any Age) | 123 & Under | M – 85 lbs / W -TBD |
| 124 – 181 | M – 100 lbs / W -TBD | |
| 182+ | M – 120 lbs / W -TBD | |
| Sub Masters (35-39) | 123 & Under | M – 75 lbs / W -TBD |
| 124 – 165 | M – 90 lbs / W -TBD | |
| 166+ | M – 110 lbs / W -TBD | |
| Masters (40-49) | 123 & Under | M – 70 lbs / W -TBD |
| 124 – 181 | M – 85 lbs / W -TBD | |
| 182+ | M – 105 lbs / W -TBD | |
| Masters (50-59) | 123 & Under | M – 65 lbs / W -TBD |
| 124 – 165 | M – 80 lbs / W -TBD | |
| 166+ | M – 100 lbs / W -TBD | |
| Masters (60-69) | 123 & Under | M – 60 lbs / W -TBD |
| 124 – 165 | M – 75 lbs / W -TBD | |
| 166+ | M – 95 lbs / W -TBD | |
| Wounded Warrior Adaptive | All Weight Classes | M – 75 lbs / W -TBD |
Competition Format & Scoring
Max Lift Challenge
- Competitors have three attempts to lift the heaviest possible Thomas Inch Dumbbell.
- The dumbbell must be lifted to full lockout in one hand, with the elbow fully extended.
- The lift is complete when the judge signals control.
- The dumbbell must be lowered under control—no dropping allowed.
Hold for Time Challenge
- Athletes deadlift the Adjustable Inch Dumbbell to full lockout and hold it for time.
- Time starts when the dumbbell reaches full extension and stops when grip fails.
- The longest hold time in each division wins.
Equipment Rules & Fair Play
✅ Allowed:
- Chalk (liquid or powder).
- Wrist wraps (must not assist grip).
- Weightlifting belt.
🚫 Not Allowed:
- Lifting straps, hooks, or gloves.
- Tacky, adhesives, or grip-enhancing substances.
- Bracing the dumbbell against the body.
Final Thoughts
The Thomas Inch Dumbbell Challenge is a true test of grip dominance, demanding elite thumb and open-hand strength. Whether you’re attempting to lift the legendary dumbbell or fighting to hold it for time, this challenge separates the strongest hands from the rest. If you can lift or hold an Inch Dumbbell, your grip strength is on another level.
CHALLENGES
EVENTS
COMMUNITY
