The Wheelbarrow Deadlift is a distinctive and challenging event in Strongman competitions, where competitors lift the handles of a loaded wheelbarrow from the ground. This event tests the athlete’s grip strength, stability, and overall lifting power, as they must manage the weight and balance of the wheelbarrow.

Event Description

In the Wheelbarrow Deadlift, competitors lift a loaded wheelbarrow by its handles from the ground to a fully erect standing position. The uneven weight distribution and the need to balance the wheelbarrow add unique challenges, requiring the athlete to demonstrate exceptional strength, coordination, and control.

Rules and Execution

• Objective: Lift the handles of the wheelbarrow for maximum weight or repetitions.
• Grip: Competitors use a neutral grip to hold the handles of the wheelbarrow.

Execution:

• Starting Position: The wheelbarrow 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 of the wheelbarrow.
• Lift: The competitor must lift the handles 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 wheelbarrow back to the ground under control. Dropping the wheelbarrow 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 wheelbarrow.

Prohibited Practices:

• The use of tacky or similar products is not allowed.
• Lifting hooks or non-standard lifting straps are prohibited.
• Competitors may not drop the wheelbarrow 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.
• 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

• Wheelbarrow: The wheelbarrow used in this event is designed to hold weights securely while presenting an uneven distribution of mass. The size and shape of the wheelbarrow can vary, adding to the challenge.
• Weight: The wheelbarrow can be loaded with weights, kegs, sandbags, stones, or tires to achieve the desired competition weight. It is best if the weights are evenly distributed to ensure balance during the lift.

The Wheelbarrow 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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