HEAVY LIFTING

The key to a strongman core is mastering the hefting of awkward, irregular objects for a full-body workout. Follow coach Rob Blair’s primer to muscle up your credentials

Atlas stones Chalk up, then get your arms under either side of the stone and squeeze until your hands turn white. Hug the stone to your lap then drive with your legs while screaming “Freeeedom!” Logs We’re talking actual timber here, so watch out for splinters. Lift as though performing a deadlift. The key is to move the wood around to find the best grip – they’re not designed with handles. Sledgehammer Grip using both hands, holding the hammer as close to the weighted end as possible. Once you have it under control, ease your hands along the handle to balance out muscle growth.