POWERLIFTING WORLD RECORDS
Image: World Record for deadlift Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson (Fox5 News)
INTRODUCTION
Feeling strong? Have you out lifted everyone in your gym? Let’s see how you stack up against the powerlifting greats!
Powerlifting is has 3 main lifts, the squat, bench press, and deadlift. Let’s take a look at the records for each.
Note: Last updated May 9th 2024 subject to change in the future.
SQUAT WORLD RECORD
The squat, often regarded as the king of all lifts, tests the lower body’s strength like no other lift.
The current record holder is by Hafthor Bjornsson of Iceland, also known for his role in “Game of Thrones” and his multiple strongman titles. Bjornsson set the record in 2020 with a staggering 501 kg (1,104 lbs) lift during a powerlifting exhibition.
BENCH PRESS WORLD RECORD
The bench press is perhaps the most popular of the big three, a lift everyone has tried at least once, even if they aren’t an athlete in training. It’s truly a foundational lift.
The world record for the heaviest bench press ever is held by Julius Maddox of the USA, an athlete known for his phenomenal upper-body strength.
In 2020, Maddox set the world record with a bench press of 355 kg (782 lbs), showcasing his world class raw power.
DEADLIFT WORLD RECORD
The deadlift, characterized by its simplicity and the raw power required to pull the weight off the ground.
The current world record is also held by Hafthor Bjornsson, who lifted an incredible 501 kg (1,104 lbs) in 2020, matching the weight of his record-setting squat.
This lift was part of a special event and has since ignited discussions on the limits of human strength.
TOTAL WEIGHT WORLD RECORD
The total weight world record in powerlifting is the sum of a competitor’s best attempts at the squat, bench press, and deadlift.
This record provides a comprehensive view of an athlete’s overall raw strength capabilities.
The current record for the highest total ever lifted in a single competition is held by Yuri Belkin of Russia, who achieved a total of 1,145 kg (2,524 lbs) across the three lifts, showcasing a well-rounded mastery of powerlifting.
WHAT MAKES THESE RECORDS SIGNIFICANT?
These records are not just numbers; they represent the pinnacle of human performance and the result of years of dedicated training, discipline, and strategic planning.
Each record holder has had to overcome immense physical and psychological challenges to reach these levels of strength.
CONCLUSION
The world records in powerlifting are a celebration of human potential and strength. They inspire both upcoming and seasoned lifters to push their limits and strive for greatness. As the sport continues to grow, these records may be challenged, but they will always stand as monuments to what can be achieved with dedication and hard work.