2012 Strongman Events

Apollon's Wheels

Apollon's Wheels, a classic of the Arnold Strongman Classic, has increased in weight to a heavier-than-ever 393lbs (177kg). A massive, higher scoring 437lb (197kg) bar is available if competitors are able to lift it. In contrast to the 2011 competition, competitors in the 2012 Arnold Strongman Classic will drop the bar after bringing it to their shoulders. A competitor who can successfully "clean" the bar will score higher than those who complete the lift in two or more movements.

Unlike traditional clean and jerk bar, Apollon's Wheels are screwed solidly to the thick axle, forcing competitors to deal not only with the overwhelming weight but also a strong angular momentum not felt with a standard barbell.

Circus Dumbbell

Contestants will lift attempt to lift a custom-made 255lb dumbbell over their head as many times as possible. This year the weight of the bell has been increased by over 15 pounds because we want this event—and all others—to test strength rather than endurance. The handle of the dumbbell is 3" in diameter (approximately as thick as a normal can of Coke), which makes it much more difficult to lift. Contestants are allowed to use two hands to bring the dumbbell to their shoulders, but must lift it overhead with only one hand.

The Austrian Oak

This challenge, new to the competition for 2012, asks the athletes to take a log (weighing between 374lbs/170kg and 441lbs/200kg) from its supports and to lift it to arms’ lift overhead. The lifter does as many repetitions as possible in 90 seconds using either a press, a push-press, a push-jerk, or a split jerk, but the log must be controlled on every repetition.

Tire Deadlift

Contestants lift a specially-designed 14-foot long bar weighted with tires and metal plates. The beginning weight for the event is at least 700 pounds and can be increased to over 1100 pounds. Wrist-straps are allowed.

The Timber Carry

Also known as the Farmer's Walk, the Timber Carry in the 2012 Arnold Strongman Classic will require the Strongmen to carry approximately 881lbs (400kg) up an inclined ramp 36 feet long. Unlike in the 2011 competition, competitors will not be allowed to use straps to lift the frame. The weight we’ll use in 2012 is the heaviest Farmer’s Walk ever done in a major competition, even on a flat surface, and our event requires the men to carry it up the same ramp we have used in past ASC contests.