Hafthor Bjornsson, known as The Mountain in Game of Thrones, will attempt this Sunday in Las Vegas to break his own world deadlift record. After lifting 474 kg in 2019, he now aims to reach 501 kg. The event comes amid debate over substance use in strongman, although the Icelander has denied any illegal practices.
The biomechanics behind a half-ton lift 🏋️
To lift 501 kg, technique is as important as brute strength. Bjornsson uses a mixed grip and a sumo stance to reduce the range of motion. Intra-abdominal pressure and posterior chain activation are key to avoiding spinal injuries. The use of a leather belt and wrist wraps helps stabilize joints under a load that exceeds the weight of a small car.
Thor's secret supplement (spoiler: it's not a protein shake) 🥚
While mortals drink coffee to start the day, Thor probably breakfasts on ostrich eggs and beef steaks. They say his secret isn't in the gym, but in avoiding the snack aisles at the supermarket. If someone lifts 500 kg, it's not because of creatine, but because they haven't seen a pizza in five years. Or maybe they have, but they use it as a kettlebell.