Larry Wheels, known for his exceptional strength and prowess, recently found himself up against an unparalleled phenomenon – the “old man strength” exhibited by 73-year-old Strongman legend, Odd Haugen. While Larry’s grip strength has been enhanced through his three years of arm wrestling, he couldn’t match the extraordinary grip strength possessed by Haugen. Together, they embarked on a grip training session, testing their abilities with custom implements.
Odd Haugen, a prominent figure in the Strongman world, has always been well known for his unfathomable grip strength. Nicknamed “The Visegrip Viking,” his extraordinary abilities have only grown stronger with age. Despite being decades younger, Larry Wheels couldn’t surpass the grip strength displayed by Odd Haugen.
View this post on Instagram
Larry Wheels Takes on Odd Haugen’s Grip Challenge
In a series of videos, Larry Wheels introduced the concept and engaged in a conversation with Odd Haugen. Larry revealed that the 73-year-old Norwegian had been training for six decades, focusing on grip training after retiring from Strongman competitions.
Test One – Saxon Bar Deadlift
The duo kicked off their training session with the Saxon Bar deadlift. This unique barbell, resembling a block, can only be lifted with a pinch grip. Although both men had previous experience with this exercise, Odd’s expertise shone through as he offered Larry some valuable tips.
Larry Wheels managed to lift 120 kilograms (264.5 pounds), surpassing his previous personal record. He attempted a heavier lift of 125 kilograms (275.5 pounds), but unfortunately, the bar slipped from his hands. On the other hand, Odd Haugen successfully lifted 125 kilograms (275.5 pounds), marking his grip strength limit for this exercise.
“That inspires me because there is going to be a point in my career when I say, okay, no longer do I feel like a Superhero, I have to pivot… I love two things, arm wrestling and grip training, and I can do that in my 70s,” stated Larry.
Test Two – Circus Dumbbell
The second challenge focused on the Circus Dumbbell, a common apparatus in Strongman competitions. Typically, Strongmen use both hands to lift the dumbbell to their shoulder and perform an overhead press. However, Odd Haugen and Larry Wheels aimed to lift an 81.7-kilogram (180-pound) Circus Dumbbell with one arm.
“Last time I was here, Martins (Licis) and I tried it. I was able to do it, Martins was not… Even Brian Shaw tried it and he couldn’t do it,” said Haugen before they commenced the exercise.
Odd Haugen recalled previous attempts by renowned athletes, such as Martins Licis and Brian Shaw, who struggled with the exercise. Larry Wheels initially attempted to lift a 78-kilogram (172-pound) Thomas Inch Dumbbell but was unable to do so due to the 2 ⅜” handle exceeding his grip strength. In contrast, Odd effortlessly lifted the dumbbell.
Larry Wheels also struggled with a heavier Circus Dumbbell featuring a thicker handle. However, Odd Haugen once again showcased his incredible grip strength, easily lifting the weight.
“What a Man. Incredible,” expressed a visibly impressed Larry Wheels.
Test Three – Rolling Thunder
The final challenge involved the Rolling Thunder, a piece of equipment with a thick, rolling handle attached to a plated loaded platform. This exercise proved to be a true test of grip strength.
Impressively, despite numerous renowned Strongman and arm wrestling athletes struggling with the exercise, the 73-year-old Odd Haugen consecutively lifted 90 kilograms (198.4 pounds) with both arms. He could have lifted more, but chose to stop at that point.
Larry Wheels, intrigued by Odd Haugen’s abilities, suggested testing their arm wrestling skills. Due to his superior technique and experience in the sport, Larry outperformed Odd but refrained from pushing the limits to prevent injuries.
“He had me beat on every move we did today. I think the longer we went on, the weaker I was going to get. It was really cool to witness that. Honestly, blown away. Huge inspiration for the next generation to see that you can be 73-years-old and stronger than a World Record powerlifter,” concluded Larry in a YouTube video.
Watch A Streaming Below:
Witnessing a man in his eighth decade of life outperform one of the strongest individuals is truly incredible. Once again, Odd Haugen has defied expectations, showcasing that anything is possible, further solidifying his status as an iconic athlete. His exceptional grip strength continues to leave an indelible impression, even on the remarkable Larry Wheels.
Overview
73-year-old Odd Haugen impresses with his unmatched grip strength. Larry Wheels, known for his exceptional strength, falls short against Haugen. The duo engages in a grip training session, utilizing custom implements. Odd Haugen’s extraordinary grip strength cements his status as a Strongman legend. Larry Wheels acknowledges the incredible feat and expresses inspiration for future generations.
Featured Image @Larry Wheels (YouTube)
