Essential Strongman Equipment for Strongman Training
If you’ve ever seen the strongman competitions on the television, you’ve seen men pushing cars, lifting extreme weights, and so much more that probably just baffles you. However, these men trained extremely hard to build up their muscle compositions, so they could complete those feats. You may complete the same types of exercises as well to build up your muscles, so you can perform acts that are beyond what the average person can do with strongman training.
So which equipment should you purchase if you want to train like those in strongman competitions do?
Contents
- View Essential Strongman Equipment for Strongman Training
- SKLZ Super Sandbag Heavy Duty Training Weight Bag (10 - 40 Pounds)
- Ultimate Sandbag Training
- CAP Barbell FM-8000F Deluxe Power Rack
- Popsport Strongman Log Bar Powerlifting
- Traveling Farmer Walk Handles
- Rogue Stubby Axel
- Titan Pro Sled System
- Dark Iron Fitness Genuine Leather Pro Weight Lifting Belt
- Rogue Wrist Wraps
- Harbinger Red Line 78-Inch Knee Wraps for Weightlifting
- Matawi Yunek Refillable Chalk Ball
- Loadable Strongman Keg from Titan Fitness
- The Indoor Tire Flipping Machine for Titan Fitness
- Rogue Rubber Atlas Stones
- Rogue Car Push Attachment
- Loadable Husacross from Titan Fitness
- Front Squat Harness from Titan Fitness
- Can I Train Without Strongman Equipment?
- What Equipment Strongman Have at Home?
- Things to Know When Planning Which Strongman Equipment to Buy
- Summary
View Essential Strongman Equipment for Strongman Training
SKLZ Super Sandbag Heavy Duty Training Weight Bag (10 - 40 Pounds)
- Develop power and explosiveness
- Great for strength building throughout body
- Four weight bags included – must be filled with a high density material, like sand
- Maximum weight of 40 lbs
- Durable outer shells for long lasting use
Review: The SKLZ Superbag Heavy Duty Training Weight Bag comes with four sandbags to increase the resistance of your workout. Each one weighs 10 pounds, but you may use four at a time to increase your resistance to 40 pounds. It’s ideal for people who are new to strongman training because you can build up gradually.
The outer shells of the bags hold up well against even the most strenuous exercises. They’ll also last for quite some time, in general. The tool that comes with this bag is multipurpose, so you may use it to strengthen either your lower body or your upper body.
Pros
- Can use for squats, deadlifts, bicep curls, and more
- Has six handles to make it versatile
- Is reasonably priced
Cons
- Some consumers did have issues with the bags bursting
Takeaway
This sandbag is useful whether you’re male or female because it offers low-level weights to gradually build your resistance. Overall, you may use it for a variety of exercises.
Ultimate Sandbag Training
- THE TOUGHEST, MOST DURABLE, VERSATILE, & ORIGINAL FITNESS SANDBAG: The Ultimate Sandbag has been the “go to” fitness sandbag since 2005. Used by elite military units, rehabilitation clinics, and top fitness programs in over 80 countries. The Ultimate Sandbag is the standard for those that want an incredible fitness training tool that can hold up to the heavy use of serious training. Our filler bag design re-invented what sandbag training could be and allows for the instability during training.
- THE STRONGEST MATERIALS AND REMOVE DUSTING: We do not use any sort of fabric, but uses a high density vinyl that is used for building boats! This means there is no tearing of your hands, you can simply wipe down your Ultimate Sandbag to clean it, no leaking of sand/dust because there are no pours to penetrate, along with the STRONGEST material of any fitness sandbag. Our Ultimate Sandbag material is up to 30% STRONGER than Cordura.
- OVER 400 EXERCISES: Our innovative design of the Ultimate Sandbag provides you the most effective and versatile training tool available. We didn’t just slap handles on a bag, we spent over a decade engineering the Ultimate Sandbag to fit the natural movement of human movement. Most other fitness sandbags have varied width and length, ours is based on analyzing human biomechanics.
- OUR GUARANTEE: There are a lot of copy cats, but there is nothing like over a decade of engineering the most extensively designed fitness sandbag. That is why we want you to have ultimate confidence in our program. Our Ultimate Sandbag also comes with a 3-year warranty so you can focus on the most important thing….getting results!
- Please note, all packages ship without sand or water
Review: The Ultimate Sandbag Training package allows you to adjust the resistance anywhere from 60 to 120 pounds. The sandbags are heavy duty and designed for Crossfit and standard exercises.
This particular option is the burly package and is for people who are experienced with sandbag lifting. This particular one has been used by rehab clinics and military units.
Its high-density vinyl material is meant not to rip, and its design lets you partake in a variety of exercises for your upper and lower halves of your body.
Pros
- Can use for a variety of exercises
- Is built to last
- Can adjust the resistance easily
Cons
- Is expensive
Takeaway
If you want a sandbag that’s designed for moderate to expert lifters, this one might be for you. You can adjust the resistance from 60 to 120 pounds. Its design allows you to use it for a variety of exercises, over 400 to be exact.
CAP Barbell FM-8000F Deluxe Power Rack
- Heavy-Duty Construction – Steel Construction Comprised of 12- and 14-Gauge Steel Thickness; Overhead Workout Station Is Made With High Grade Tubular Steel
- Durable & Reliable – 3-Step Powder Coat Finish for Exceptional Durability; Gussets for Extra Reinforced Support; Capped Frame Ends to Prevent Oxidation
- Features – 2 plate posts, 3 band posts on each side to add resistance, 2 j-cup bar catches, 2 safety catches, pull-up bar & bar holders with ABS sleeves to prevent scratches when removing/storing an Olympic bar
- Versatile – Use this power rack to perform squats, deadlifts, pull-ups and more | Incorporate an adjustable bench for added versatility
- Specs – Assembled Dimensions(WxDxH) 61.4" x 45.6" x 85" | Max Weight Capacity: 300 lbs(Bar Catches), 300 lbs(Pull Up Bar), 500 lbs Combined | Min Barbell Shaft Length: 47"
Review: The CAP Barbell FM-8000F Deluxe Power Rack is ideal for a variety of exercises, including squats, yoke walks, bench presses, and more. It consists of 12- and 14-gauge steel, so it’s designed to last. The machine is durable, so it can handle even the strongest of strength training exercises.
Plus, it comes with a variety of ways to add resistance, including a two-plate post and three-band post
Pros
- Thick composition, so it’s meant to last
- Is very versatile
- Looks professional with its powder-coated finish
Cons
- May take some time to assemble
Takeaway
If you want to be able to perform a variety of strength training exercises and have the room, you may want to consider this piece. It’ll take around an hour to assemble, but it’s worth it if you want to partake in this type of exercise.
Popsport Strongman Log Bar Powerlifting
- 🐝HIGH QUALITY MATERIAL -8inch blue barbell bar. Made of Q235 steel with spraying paint, has fully welded ends, it is durable and resistant to rust and corrosion. Sturdy enough to hold weight up to 317KG/700LBS.
- 🐝COMFORTABLE NEUTRAL HANDLE - 1.2in/32mm dia. neutral handles can keep the center gravity of the bar to you for more control, also can help to reduce the stress on your shoulders.
- 🐝FITS OLYMPIC PLATES - Loadable Sleeve Diameter: 50mm/2in. Fits standard size Olympic weight plates. Heavy duty steel tubes are durable and sturdy. Perfect for heavy loads.
- 🐝FITNESS MUSCLE - The centerpiece for strength training.Perfect for deadlifts, overhead pressing, rows and bench work. Can be used to burn calories, increase bone density, Increase muscle strength, relieve work fatigue, and reduces muscle soreness.
- 🐝GREAT EFFECT - Perfect for strength training and developing upper body strength. Can be used to build shoulder and back muscles. Perfect for home, gym, office and so on.
Review: Popsport makes a 10-inch strongman log for powerlifting. This log consists of Q235 steel, so it’s durable and resistant to rust. You may use it for a variety of exercises. A person weighing up to 700 pounds may stand on it, which shows you how durable it is.
The weight of the log itself is only 50 pounds, but you can add resistance to the ends of it.
It has neutral handles, so you’ll have no trouble finding the center of gravity. Ultimately, this means you’ll have full control of this particular log. This will also reduce stress on your shoulders. Some examples of exercises you can perform with this log include bench lifts, overhead pressing, and deadlifts. It’s beneficial to increase muscle strength, increase bone density, and burn calories.
Pros
- Is a versatile weight
- Consists of high-quality materials
- Easy to store
Cons
- Is quite expensive for what it is
Takeaway
If price isn’t an option and you’d like a versatile piece of equipment, this log may be for you. You can use it for a variety of purposes and it’s specifically designed to make the exercises you choose as low-impact on certain joints as possible.
Traveling Farmer Walk Handles
Review: These farmer walk handles are made in the USA and are meant to be budget friendly, as opposed to full-scale options. With these handles, you attach weight to the bottoms of them. Total, you can add over 300 pounds of steel plates onto the bottom of one strap.
The straps consist of 8″ of nylon per strap. The handle consists of a steel core, meant to withstand the weight. Moreover, the handles have a rubber coating to make them comfortable for your hands.
Pros
- Ideal for grip training and to build up muscles
- Can be used for people of all skill levels since the weights are adjustable
- Are meant to withstand a great deal of stress
Cons
- May be difficult for some to use for farmer’s walk
Takeaway
Overall, if you want a piece of equipment to strength train and perform the farmer’s walk for, these are ideal. The structure of the handles themselves are excellent, but some people find this type of experience just isn’t for them.
Rogue Stubby Axel
Review: This axel is 1.9″ in diameter and has space to place weights on both ends. You may use it for a variety of exercises. You can also condense the load to change pace and challenge yourself when you use this bar.
This bar has a coated finish to ensure you can grip it easily. Its loadable sleeve length is 8″, so you can load it with enough weight to gradually increase the intensity of your workout.
Pros
- Is strong enough to hold a lot of weight
- Can be used for a variety of exercises
- Can load it in different ways to change your exercise routine
Cons
- Some barbell collars won’t work with it
Takeaway
This is a product that holds weight well without bending. It’s ideal if you want to gradually increase your weight load to slowly enhance your muscle mass. Plus, you can use it for different ways without worrying about losing grip. You may need to use barbell collars from the company.
Titan Pro Sled System
Review: With the Titan Pro Sled System, you can train your glutes, legs, arms, and abs. The sled comes with a variety of equipment accessories, including a double arch, high bar, low bar, and low boy handle, among others. You can create your own workouts, and the entire point of the sled is to reduce strain on your feet and legs while providing you with a variety of activities.
If you have a ski liner, you may even place this piece of equipment outside, which is useful if you like the outdoors or just don’t have the room indoors.
You may use it on a variety of terrains, such as grass, asphalt, and concrete.
Pros
- Can be used indoors or outdoors
- Is made durable to stand up your most vigorous exercise routine
- Can use it with a variety of accessories
Cons
- Some consumers may not like it on asphalt
Takeaway
If you want a piece of exercise equipment that’s versatile, this machine may be for you. With the different accessories that go along with the machine, you can perform a wide range of exercises. Plus, it’s built to last.
Dark Iron Fitness Genuine Leather Pro Weight Lifting Belt
- STRONG - Pumping iron calls for a workout belt that won't wear out. Luckily, these weightlifting belts for men and women are sturdy and will provide protection to your spine and core while you train.
- COMFORTABLE - Ease into every lift with this MEDIUM 32" - 40" (Waist size not pant size) gym belt. Made from 100% genuine leather, the weight belt is soft to the touch, yet flexible and sturdy enough for optimal support.
- LIFT HEAVY - When it's time to gear up for the gym, grab your Dark Iron Fitness weightlifting belt. Each one of these USAPL-approved powerlifting belts will enable you to squat or deadlift up to 600 lbs.
- POWERFUL - Our weight lifting belts for men and women are fashioned to a thickness and width that allow you to go harder during training. On average, this deadlift belt has helped improve lifts by 10%.
- REINVENT YOURSELF - Ready to achieve your fitness goals? Strap on one of these weight lifting belts for women and men for some extra support as you get stronger and become a happier, healthier you.
Review: A lifting belt is one of the essential pieces of equipment that you need for strongman training. This particular one consists of leather. It’s made so it won’t break, wear out, or tear easily, especially since it’s made from genuine leather rather than nylon, faux leather, or velcro.
The belt is comfortable. You won’t have to contend with it digging into your hips or sides because it’s soft and flexible. It’s still supportive, though. With this particular belt, you can deadlift or squat more than 600 pounds without worrying that the belt won’t hold up.
Pros
- The belt holds up well, even with extreme weights
- Can be used for a variety of exercises
- Fits snugly, yet comfortably
Cons
- It May not work well if you’re lifting extremely heavyweights
Takeaway
When you want a lifting belt for an affordable price, you may want to consider this one. The belt is made to last, and for most people, it’ll withstand the weight that he or she lifts. It’s meant to fit comfortably as well.
Rogue Wrist Wraps
Review: The Rogue Wrist Wraps provide your wrists with support while you’re lifting. Although it’s not a true heavy-weight piece of exercise equipment, it can help you prevent an injury while you perform extreme weight training. Generally, these wrist wraps are for overhead lifting or pressing. You may also use them for any other type of strongman training or powerlifting that requires you to lift with your arms.
You may choose these ones in three different lengths, so you may find one that fits you comfortably. They consist of elastic, polyester, and cotton, so they’re made to be comfortable and absorbent.
Pros
- Come in severe different colors
- Are designed to fit a variety of arm sizes
- Are an affordable price
Cons
- May wear out sooner than you would like
Takeaway
If you would like a pair of wrist bands that are affordable yet functional, you should look into these ones. They’re durable and are meant to fit your wrists tightly to provide the optimal level of support for your wrists.
Harbinger Red Line 78-Inch Knee Wraps for Weightlifting
- Pair of knee wraps for knee stability and positioning during heavy weight lifting
- 3-inch wide competition-grade elastic provides maximum support, reducing stress on the quads and patella for heavier squats
- 78-inch extended length allows for overlap and different wrap styles
- Helps to preserve and protect the knee joints during weightlifting, bodybuilding, powerlifting, and strength training exercises
- One size fits most men and women; fully adjustable elastic can be tensioned for different compression needs
Review: Whenever you’re training for a strongman competition or just want to look like one of the competitors, you should make sure you stabilize your joints. The Harbinger Red Line 78-Inch Knee Wraps provide your knees with an adequate amount of support. They’re meant to fit tighty around your knees. These come in three varieties: red and black, camo, and patriot, so you may find one that you like.
They consist of three-inch wide elastic for the optimal level of support.
Pros
- Are meant to last
- Can choose the style you prefer
- Are inexpensive
Cons
- Only available in a 78-inch length
Takeaway
These knee wraps are durable and can fit on a variety of sizes of legs. You just alter how many times you overlap them, depending on the size of your leg. However, if your leg has a bigger diameter than most, you may find that these aren’t a suitable size for you.
Matawi Yunek Refillable Chalk Ball
- MORE CHALK FOR YOUR MONEY that will help you start lifting weights or climbing without any worries; The Matawi refillable ball contains a large 75 gram chalk bag of pure; non-toxic and skin-safe magnesium carbonate
- ENHANCE YOUR GRIP & PROTECT YOUR HANDS with our refillable gym chalk ball that will allow you to improve your grip and avoid accidents; Hypoallergenic and sweat-absorbent weightlifting chalk will help you perform better; increase your grip and keep your equipment from slipping
- BOOST YOUR ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE EASILY thanks to our super friction chalk which will make weightlifting; powerlifting; rock climbing; bouldering; lacrosse; bowling; pool or other sports not only easier but also safer; Now you can handle athletic gear without worrying about rain, moisture or sweat; Loose chalk perfect for men and women
- THE REFILLABLE CHALK BALL WILL MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER since it will help you apply chalk to your hands without making a huge mess unlike a messy chalk pouch; Simply roll this 75g chalk ball between your hands and apply enough chalk to enhance your grip; make your equipment less slippery and avoid slips & falls
- IT’S NO WONDER PRO ATHLETES PREFER OUR REFILLABLE GYM CHALK BALL; Why risk an accident or waste a small fortune on other gripping liquid solutions when you can have 75g of pure tested and unscented sports chalk
Review: The Matawi Yunek Refillable Chalk Ball is an accessory more than an actual piece of equipment. However, the chalk ball can absorb sweat, so your exercise equipment doesn’t slip from your hands. The chalk that it comes with is hypoallergenic, so you don’t have to worry about an allergic reaction. Plus, it’s refillable.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Can refill it over and over again
- Chalk is hypoallergic
Cons
- Chalk bag sometimes leaks chalk
Takeaway
If you want chalk for your workout without the mess, you may should consider purchasing this chalk ball. The bag should last you, and the chalk shouldn’t cause any type of reaction on your skin. It’s ideal for exercises like yoke walks.
Loadable Strongman Keg from Titan Fitness
Review: A loadable keg is a keg that opens up, and you place weighted plates in. Then, you lift and carry it. You can also use it for other exercises as well. The keg can handle up to 500 pounds.
The keg is made of heavy-duty steel that’ll last and hold up, even with all the weight you place in it. It has handles on either side and the top and bottom, so you can carry or load it.
The loadable keg is made of durable, heavy-duty steel, with a thickness of 0.125-inch. It has laser-cut handles on both sides as well as the top and bottom for a better grip while carrying or loading easily. Plus, you can carry it in different ways.
Pros
- Offers the benefit of fixed weightlifting
- Has handles where you need them
- Can handle a great deal of weight
Cons
- Have to purchase weights separately
Takeaway
If you want a keg that’s meant to last and consists of a strong, rust-proof exterior, you’ll like this loadable keg. You can purchase up to 600 pounds of weight to use with it, for a grand total of over 700 pounds.
The Indoor Tire Flipping Machine for Titan Fitness
Review: The Indoor Tire Flipping Machine can help you prepare for the tractor flipping challenge. It also helps you build arm and leg muscle. The resistance of these machines begins at 125 pounds and can increase by 185 pounds. Its walk-in frame is designed for you to step in and move naturally. You can fit in a small space.
Pros
- Can use for individual or group training
- Ideal if you have limited space
- Is easy to use
Cons
- Shouldn’t be used outdoors
Takeaway
Whether you want to train for the strongman competition or just want to build up massive muscles using the same techniques, you may want to consider the tire flipper. To ensure the machine lasts, you want to keep it inside.
Rogue Rubber Atlas Stones
Review: The Rogue Rubber Atlas Stones consist of five stones of varying weights. You can choose the level you want, ranging clear up to 200 lbs. You use these to practice placing on high platforms, like what the athletes in the strongman competitions do.
The inside of these stones consists of cast iron while they’re protected with a rubber over-mold to make them easier and more comfortable for you to grip.
Pros
- Come in a variety of weights
- Embossed, so you can easily find the weight you need
- Recessed edges, so they don’t roll
Cons
- Are expensive
Takeaway
These weighted balls can help you prepare for the strongman competition where you lift heavy stones up on platforms. They’re designed to last. These, however, take up room and might be more than you want to spend for an item of this nature.
Rogue Car Push Attachment
Review: The Rogue Car Pull Attachment is a hitch that can fit on your SUV, truck, or car, so you can practice pushing your vehicle. You must have your vehicle off and in neutral with this device. You may choose between a steel or black one.
Plus, it comes with a wall-mount, so you may store it easily.
Pros
- Comes with its own storage
- Can adjust to fit a variety of vehicles, even SUVs
- Consists of heavy-duty metal to ensure it lasts
Cons
- Price may be offsetting to some
Takeaway
For people who want to practice the car pull, this piece of equipment can give them that ability, even if they have a truck or SUV. Moreover, the device is meant to hold up to the stress of you pushing on it, and the weight of the vehicle.
Loadable Husacross from Titan Fitness
Review: A husacross may be used in a variety of ways. For one, you may lift it by the two pieces that protrude from it by bending at your knees and lifting. On the other hand, you may purchase two of them and carry them by the handles on the top. Therefore, you can use it to practice the farmer’s walk.
You may use it as a 77-pound weight when you don’t load it, or you can put weights in the inside to increase the resistance.
Pros
- Can be used for different exercises
- Can be used at different resistances
- Durable metal composition will last you for years to come
Cons
Price may be more than you want to spend for this type of device
Takeaway
This Husacross can enhance your workout and prepare you for more than one strongman competition. It’s an excellent workout and highly customizable since you can increase the weight in this piece of equipment.
Front Squat Harness from Titan Fitness
Review: The Front Squat Harness from Titan Fitness can allow you to add weight to practice squats with resistance. The bar consists of high-quality steel, so it’s meant to last. It’s also designed with safety in mind. That’s why it has extra notches, so the barbell doesn’t roll near your neck.
Pros
- Made with safety in mind
- Metal is strong to withstand heavy weights
- Fits most people comfortably.
Cons
May be more than you want to spend
Takeaway
If you want to amp up your squats, you may want to try this device. It’s meant to hold weight and last.
Can I Train Without Strongman Equipment?
If you want to enter a strongman competition, you don’t need specialized equipment to do so. You can train without it or improvise. You can also choose to only purchase a few pieces that are versatile enough that you can perform a variety of exercises that you’ll need to perform during the competition. For instance, a husacross can prepare you for multiple competitions. You can also find certain pieces of equipment used.
This choice would be up to you. You could always use any exercise equipment you have now to work your muscles and build up resistance. You wouldn’t necessarily need to have the special equipment. However, you may want the equipment, so you can practice the exact exercises that you’ll have to perform during the competition. You’ll feel more prepared and less nervous.
What Equipment Strongman Have at Home?
This really depends on the funds you have to spend on your home gym. It also depends on the space you have as well. While having one of everything on the list and then some could really help you train for the competition, this isn’t practical for most people. Therefore, you’ll need to choose the pieces carefully.
The Husacross, for one, can help you train for more than one competition. It’s also an excellent workout for your legs and arms. It trains you for both squatting lifting competitions as well as the farmer’s walk — when you have to walk with items in both of your arms along with the highest weight you can handle. This device is also customizable since you can load it with the proper weight and increase as necessary.
The sandbags are another versatile piece of training equipment because you can use it in various ways. You can also increase the resistance.
Things to Know When Planning Which Strongman Equipment to Buy
Whenever you look for strongman equipment, you should look into pieces that are versatile, so you can prepare for more than one competition with it. You want pieces of equipment that were designed to last since you’ll be using them for vigorous activities.
Another thing to consider is that only some can go outdoors, so if you’re limited inside and have to set up outside, make sure you read carefully.
Ideally, you want to choose items that are made of a strong metal that will hold up well. You also want a piece of equipment that isn’t known to rust.
Finally, you shouldn’t choose pieces based on cost alone. If you’re limited on funds, it’s okay to pick and choose what you want in your home gym; however, you don’t want to choose the cheapest piece of equipment because it may not hold up. You may truly get what you pay for if you try to save money on your equipment.
Summary
Not everyone can become a strongman competitor. It takes a great deal of time and training to get yourself to a point where you can qualify. Even if you don’t qualify, you can still build up muscle and help yourself feel more confident with your body.
Various pieces are available to help you with your training. You can choose to build up leg muscles or arm muscles, but you ideally want to build up both because of the range of exercises you’ll need to perform.
When looking for equipment, you’ll want to create a budget and take into consideration the amount of space you have. While it would be nice to have an endless budget and unlimited space, this isn’t a reality for many. Therefore, it can help to find pieces that take up little room, can be used indoors or out, pieces that come with their own storage solution, and are within your desired budget. Keep in mind that just because you’re on a budget or limited on the pieces you can fit into your home gym, you can still prepare for many events and train for the competition. On the other hand, you can always choose to train to get your body where you want it and be proud of your results, rather than go on to train for the competition.