How to Lift Stone Balls

Hoisting large stones off the ground and carrying them or placing them onto elevated platforms has been a test of strength for hundreds of years. The Atlas stones seen in modern Strongman competitions are based on the McGlashen stones from ancient Scotland. The goal of the Atlas stone competition is to lift five stones of increasing size and weight unto elevated platforms. Typically, the competitor lifts the lightest stone onto the tallest platform and the platforms get shorter as the weights increase. The contestant who is able to place the stones on the platforms the fastest wins.

Instructions

    • 1

      Straddle behind the stone you intend to lift. Stand with the stone slightly in front of you with your heels about 4 inches behind the stone.

    • 2

      Squat down and reach under the bottom half of the stone, keeping your arms straight, and spread your fingers to help prevent the stone from rolling out of your grip.

    • 3

      Squeeze the stone as though you want to crush it.

    • 4

      Lift the stone above your knees, then squat down and rest the stone against your lap.

    • 5

      Adjust your grip to the upper half of the stone, keeping your fingers spread to improve grip and control.

    • 6

      Stand up, rolling the stone up your torso, pulling the stone up with your hands and forearms. Thrust your hips forward as you roll the stone upward to pop the stone up and set it on the elevated platform.