Odd Object Lifting

Lifting barrels was a common test of strength many years back.

A true test of strength is to take a random object and lift it. This object can take on many forms from stones to bags, barrels to anvils and more. Depending on the object the objective may be to just lift it off the ground or to get it locked out arms overhead.

Barbells and dumbbells are made to be lifted. And that means they are easy to lift, and you’ll be able to do more weight with them than with anything else. But an odd object is not made for lifting. Hence the challenge. Even though it may only be 100 or 200 lbs. it could be more difficult than a barbell twice its weight.

Common odd objects are rocks and stones of all sizes. Then you have barrels and kegs which can be filled with liquid. If they’re not filled all the way the water moves around making the object much harder to put up. Large sandbags are similar as the sand shifts around. Plus these all can challenge your grip like crazy. And then there are big logs. All these objects, and some really impressive lifts, can be seen in this video of Bud Jeffries in his Odd Object Lifting Series. If you want to learn tons of ways and all the details of odd object lifting be sure to check that out.

Adding odd object lifting to your training will further challenge muscles you didn’t know you had. You’ll have to work everything to stabilize the heavy and unstable load. Be sure to read Dinosaur Training for more on the subject.

Here’s a video of an odd object by the name of Big Red I use on occasion.