Hafthor Bjornsson hits a new PR in an epic deadlift training session
Hafthor Bjornsson, also known as “The Mountain,” continues to prove why he is one of the strongest men to ever walk the earth. The Icelandic strongman and former “World’s Strongest Man” winner, renowned for his unmatched feats of strength, has once again raised the bar for human capability in the gym. Recently, Bjornsson smashed his own personal record by completing a raw deadlift of 430 kilograms (948 pounds) for two consecutive reps in a jaw-dropping training session. This achievement is just the latest example of his relentless pursuit of deadlifting supremacy.
Hafthor Bjornsson, who currently holds the all-time deadlift world record at 501 kilograms (1,104.5 pounds), has not slowed down since his return to competitive strength sports. His latest feat—pulling 430 kilograms not once but twice—proves that he’s far from done with the deadlift game. This latest PR comes as he prepares to compete in the 2024 Rogue Invitational, where he aims to silence any remaining doubters and possibly make a run at his own world record.
View this post on Instagram
A Relentless Return to Form
Hafthor Bjornsson retired from competitive Strongman after setting his legendary 501-kilogram deadlift record in 2020. While many assumed this would be the final chapter in his competitive career, the Icelandic behemoth shocked the strength world by returning to the sport just a few years later. His return hasn’t been without setbacks—most notably, a pec tear that temporarily sidelined him during a powerlifting meet—but Bjornsson’s resilience has allowed him to regain momentum in a remarkably short period of time.
Since coming back from his injury, Bjornsson has participated in several elite Strongman competitions, consistently dominating the deadlift events. His latest two-rep deadlift PR of 430 kilograms is a testament to his ongoing progression. Despite having achieved what many consider the pinnacle of deadlifting with his 501-kilogram record, Bjornsson appears more determined than ever to push his limits even further.
The 430-kg Deadlift: Technique and Execution
Hafthor Bjornsson’s new personal record in the deadlift was not only remarkable because of the sheer weight but also due to the flawless technique and raw power he demonstrated during the lift. Performed in a conventional stance—following the rules of Strongman competitions, which disallow sumo deadlifting—Bjornsson executed the lift using only a lifting belt and straps, keeping the lift within raw lifting parameters.
The first rep was nothing short of spectacular. Bjornsson pulled the 948 pounds off the ground with stunning ease, reaching full lockout in just a couple of seconds. His second rep was slightly more measured, taking a bit longer to get off the ground, but he still achieved a smooth lockout, further solidifying this personal milestone.
For context, most elite lifters would struggle to pull this weight even once. For Bjornsson to do it for two reps in a training session is a testament to his near-superhuman strength and the tireless work he’s put into his comeback.
The Road to the Rogue Invitational 2024
With his new PR under his belt, Bjornsson’s attention now shifts to the 2024 Rogue Invitational, set to take place from November 8-10 in Aberdeen, Scotland. While Bjornsson’s dominance in deadlifting is well-established, he is laser-focused on improving his performance across all events.
His previous competitive appearances have highlighted some weak spots, particularly in upper body strength-based events. However, the Icelandic giant has reportedly been making significant strides in these areas, leaving many fans eager to see how he’ll fare in this upcoming contest.
What’s more, the Rogue Invitational could serve as the perfect stage for Hafthor Bjornsson to continue his climb toward a new deadlift world record. He has openly expressed a desire to break his own 501-kilogram mark, but only under official competition conditions. After facing criticism from some quarters for achieving the record in a controlled setting (during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic), Bjornsson is determined to leave no room for doubt. His current training performances suggest that a new record attempt may not be far off.
A Legend Rewriting His Own Legacy
Hafthor Bjornsson’s career has been nothing short of legendary. The 2018 World’s Strongest Man winner and a regular fixture in elite Strongman events, Bjornsson has transcended the sport, becoming a household name thanks in part to his role as “The Mountain” in Game of Thrones. Yet, for all his success in Strongman, Bjornsson’s true claim to fame lies in his deadlifting prowess. His 501-kilogram lift shattered the previous record and sent shockwaves through the strength world.
Now, as Bjornsson continues to make strides in training, it’s clear that he has no intention of resting on his laurels. His recent two-rep deadlift PR is just the latest in a series of remarkable achievements as he inches closer to potentially breaking his own world record. In a sport where consistency and longevity are rare, Bjornsson’s continued dominance is nothing short of remarkable.
What’s Next for Hafthor?
As the Rogue Invitational approaches, fans and competitors alike are watching Bjornsson with bated breath. His progress in training suggests that his best may still be yet to come, especially in the deadlift. Will we see the Icelandic titan set another all-time record in competition? Only time will tell.
One thing, however, is certain: Hafthor Bjornsson is far from finished. As he crushes new personal records and gears up for what could be another defining moment in his career, it’s clear that his story in the strength world is far from over. Expect to see even greater feats of strength from The Mountain in the months and years to come.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
