The Strongman legend took down Larry Wheels in three tests of grip strength.
Larry Wheels recently tested his super-human strength against a legend in Strongman. Odd Haugen is a 73-year-old powerlifter who continues to impress and inspire with his feats of strength. Recently Haugen took down Wheels in a test of grip strength.
Haugen has been nicknamed “The Visegrip Viking” in retirement. He put together an incredible career as a Strongman but since retiring, he has focused on grip strength and the results are insane.
Wheels continues to lift heavy in the gym while preparing his physique for bodybuilding. He has shared his goals to compete in Classic Physique in the future and is detailing his physique in order to do so. In a recent YouTube video, Wheels threw it back to a Strongman challenge against one of the greats.
Larry Wheels vs. Odd Haugen’s Challenge
The video began in the gym as Larry Wheels and Odd Haugen went through three lifts in order to test grip strength.
Saxon Bar Deadlift
The first lift was the Saxon Bar deadlift. For this test, the bar is shaped like a block, meaning that it cannot be lifted in any other way than with a pinch grip.
Wheels lifted 120kg (264.5lb), which was his own PR. He attempted to add five more kilograms but was unable to maintain his grip. Haugen stepped up to the bar and successfully lifted the 125kg (275.5lb) bar. He was unable to go any heavier.
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Circus Dumbbell
Circus Dumbbell is a Strongman event where competitors use both hands to lift a dumbbell to their shoulder and overhead. Haugen and Wheels modified the lift and wanted to do it with one hand.
“Last time I was here, Martins and I tried it. I was able to do it. Martins was not. Even Brian Shaw tried it and he couldn’t do it,” Haugen said.
Wheels attempted a 78kg (172lb) dumbbell but could not handle the 2 ⅜ handle. Haugen was next and successfully completed the lift. The duo then moved onto a 3-inch handle and once again, Haugen was successful. Weightlifting straps offer immense grip support and often are relied on by professionals.
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Rollin Thunder
The third and final test for the Strongmen was Rollin Thunder, which has a thick, rolling handle. Haugen was able to lift 90kg (198.4lb) multiple times. He said that he had more in the tank but did not attempt a heavier lift.
“He had me beat on every move we did today,” Larry Wheel said.
“I think the longer we went on, the weaker I was going to get. It was really cool to witness that. Honestly, blown away. Huge inspiration for the next generation to see that you can be 73 ears old and stronger than a World Record powerlifter.”
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