Nick Best, the iconic powerlifter, recently showcased his unparalleled longevity by accomplishing an extraordinary feat that has left the strength sports community in awe. In a recently released video on World’s Strongest Man champion Mitchell Hooper’s YouTube channel, Best, at the age of 54, demonstrated his exceptional strength by squatting an impressive 364.2 kilograms (802.9 pounds).
“It’s been 27 years now. The first time was in 1996,” revealed Best, reflecting on his remarkable achievement.
This extraordinary milestone marked the 27th consecutive year that Best has successfully lifted this monumental weight, solidifying his reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the world of strength sports.
Watch a Nick Best Youtube Streaming Below
A Testimony of Unyielding Dedication and Preparation
To prepare for this awe-inspiring feat, Best donned a lifting belt, knee sleeves, and wrist wraps, standard accessories in the realm of powerlifting that provide stability and support during heavy lifts. These meticulous preparations reflect Best’s unwavering commitment to his craft. Despite retiring from competitive strongman events in 2022, Best remains an active professional powerlifter, continuously pushing his limits and striving for new personal records.
A Triumph of Resilience and Tenacity
Best’s recent accomplishment comes on the heels of a significant medical event – a nephrectomy, the surgical removal of a kidney. However, this setback did not hinder Best’s progress. In April 2023, just a few months after his surgery, he impressively performed seated iso lateral rows with a weight of 244.9 kilograms (540 pounds) for eight repetitions. Then, in late May 2023, he achieved a squat of 350 kilograms (771.6 pounds) with wraps. These outstanding displays of strength and determination underscore Best’s unwavering resilience in the face of adversity.
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Continuing the Journey with Deadlifts
Following his triumphant squat, Best shifted his focus to deadlifts during his training session with Mitchell Hooper. Best demonstrated his sheer power by completing multiple repetitions with 227 kilograms (500.4 pounds). Hooper, equally dedicated, worked with an impressive 275 kilograms (606.2 pounds). The duo exemplified the camaraderie prevalent within the powerlifting community, supporting and inspiring one another in their pursuit of greatness.
Defying Age with Unrivaled Performance
Best’s exceptional achievements defy age-related limitations in powerlifting. The fact that he has maintained the same weight for squats for nearly three decades is a testament to his indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to training. Best’s remarkable longevity serves as an inspiration to aspiring powerlifters, showcasing that with determination and dedication, incredible accomplishments can be attained at any stage of life.
A Strategic Approach to Competition
While it has been over a year since Best last competed in a powerlifting contest, this deliberate decision reflects his strategic approach to competition. Best understands the importance of allowing himself ample time for complete recovery and optimizing his physical condition before returning to the competitive stage. By taking this approach, he ensures that he can perform at his best and leave an indelible mark on the powerlifting world.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Nick Best’s enduring journey in powerlifting continues to inspire and motivate athletes of all levels. His unwavering dedication, resilience, and relentless pursuit of excellence serve as a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating the extraordinary possibilities that exist within the realm of strength sports. Best’s remarkable achievements extend beyond mere records; they are a reminder that strength and determination have no boundaries.
Overview
Nick Best’s recent feat of squatting 364.2 kilograms (802.9 pounds) for the 27th consecutive year showcases his extraordinary longevity and unwavering commitment to the sport of powerlifting. His indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication continue to captivate the strength sports community as he defies age-related expectations and persistently pushes the boundaries of what is considered possible. Best’s remarkable journey is a testament to the power of resilience, perseverance, and unwavering commitment in achieving greatness in the world of strength sports.
Featured image @nickbeststrongman (Instagram)