This week on the USA Weightlifting Podcast, we’re speaking with the man known as the strongest weightlifter in American history, Shane Hamman. Shane still holds all the super heavyweight American records with a 197.5 kg (435 lb) snatch, a 237.5 kg (524 lb) clean and jerk, and a 430 kg (948 lb) total; the last 2 of which were broken at the 2004 Olympics. Before Shane got into Olympic lifting he had already made a name for himself as a Powerlifter where he held the world record back squat from 1996-2012 with a lift of 457.5 kgs (1,008 lbs). In this episode we get to learn about Shane’s early career as a Powerlifter, what it was like transitioning into Olympic lifting, and some tips he used for staying healthy while still adding weight to the bar. But, our favorite part is how much more to this man there is than just his physical strength, so be prepared to get your inspirational fix for the day as well. Enjoy the show!


Topics:

03:10 - Rachel’s challenge
12:00 - Going from Powerlifting to Olympic Lifting
17:30 - Powerlifting training
20:30 - Early OLY training
34:10 - Staying healthy & getting stronger
46:00 - Faith and weightlifting
51:45 - Proudest moment: 2003 World Championships
56:50 - Life after weightlifting