Why Strongman and Powerlifting Competitions Are the Best Ways to Get Stronger

Strength Is Not an Option—It’s a Must!

In today’s world, strength is often seen as a luxury, something reserved for athletes or those who have the time and energy to train. This mindset is completely wrong. Strength is not an option; it is a necessity. It is the foundation for a healthy, functional, and resilient life. Without strength, the body deteriorates, injuries become common, and everyday tasks become difficult. Whether you are an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone just looking to live a better life, getting stronger should be your top priority.

Unfortunately, many people don’t realize how essential strength is until it’s too late. They ignore the benefits of strength training and then wonder why their bodies fail them as they age. This is why it is critical to emphasize the importance of strength and introduce methods that guarantee results. Two of the most effective ways to build strength are through strongman and powerlifting competitions. These competitive arenas push people beyond their comfort zones and force them to develop the raw, functional strength necessary for both athletic performance and everyday life. Let’s talk more about the importance of strength, and what it can bring to you and your life!

PS: Did you know Harvesting Strength is an online platform for training clients to becoming stronger? Don’t believe me? Click HERE to hear more!

The Importance of Strength Training

Strength training improves quality of life in countless ways. It enhances posture, reduces joint pain, and increases mobility. Simple daily tasks, such as carrying groceries, lifting objects, or even getting out of a chair, become easier with a stronger body. Additionally, strength plays a key role in injury prevention. Many injuries, especially those that arise with age, stem from muscular imbalances and weakness. Training builds stronger muscles, ligaments, and tendons, making the body more resilient.

Strength is also a major factor in longevity. Studies have shown that maintaining muscle mass and strength reduces the risk of chronic illness and frailty as people age. Beyond physical benefits, strength training builds confidence and mental toughness. Lifting heavy and testing limits requires determination, pushing individuals beyond their perceived capabilities. The discipline developed through strength training carries over into every aspect of life.

Athletic performance is another area where strength plays a critical role. No matter the sport, strength enhances performance and reduces injury risk. Stronger athletes are faster, more powerful, and more durable. Strength training also increases bone density, which is crucial for preventing osteoporosis and fractures, particularly as people get older.

Why Strongman and Powerlifting Are the Best Ways to Get Stronger

While general strength training is beneficial, structured competition provides a unique level of motivation and results. Strongman and powerlifting competitions offer distinct advantages that cannot be replicated in a traditional gym setting.

Competition drives progress in a way that casual training does not. Training for an event pushes people beyond their limits, forcing them to lift heavier and train with greater focus. Strongman, in particular, builds real-world strength by incorporating odd-object lifting, heavy carries, and explosive power movements. These events mimic the physical demands of daily life and improve grip strength, core stability, and full-body power in ways traditional machines cannot.

Powerlifting, on the other hand, develops maximal strength through the three fundamental lifts: squat, bench press, and deadlift. These movements target the largest muscle groups in the body, reinforcing proper technique and building raw power. Training for powerlifting teaches individuals how to handle progressively heavier loads, making them stronger and more resilient over time.

Another advantage of competing in strongman or powerlifting is the strength community. Unlike general gym-goers, competitors in these sports are dedicated, supportive, and driven. Being surrounded by like-minded individuals fosters motivation, accountability, and a sense of camaraderie. The structured nature of competition also ensures long-term progress. Training programs for powerlifting and strongman are periodized, meaning they follow a structured progression that maximizes strength gains over time.

Beyond the physical benefits, competition forces individuals to overcome mental barriers. Many people underestimate their strength and fail to push themselves in training. Competing eliminates this hesitation, requiring lifters to step outside their comfort zones and test their true limits. The mental toughness gained from these experiences translates into other areas of life, building confidence and resilience.

Another major benefit of strength competitions is that progress is measurable. Unlike general fitness goals, which can be vague, powerlifting and strongman provide clear benchmarks. Whether it’s hitting a new squat max or improving performance in a yoke carry, measurable progress keeps individuals motivated and engaged.

How to Get Started with Strongman and Powerlifting

For those new to structured strength training, starting with basic barbell lifts and fundamental strongman-style movements is key. Building a solid foundation ensures that heavier loads can be handled safely over time. Even for those who do not plan to compete, incorporating competitive elements in training can provide motivation and a sense of accomplishment. Testing max-effort lifts, setting time-based challenges, or participating in small in-house competitions can simulate the intensity of a real event and accelerate progress.

Creating a supportive training environment is another important factor. Training alongside others who are also working toward strength goals fosters motivation and accountability. Strength is a lifelong pursuit, and the discipline gained through structured training will lead to long-term success in both health and performance.

If you are still not sure how to start, click HERE to get access to my introduction to strength training called “Principles of Programming”.

Strength Is a Non-Negotiable

Strength is not just about lifting heavy weights—it is about building a resilient, capable body that can handle the demands of life. Whether through strongman, powerlifting, or structured training, getting stronger is essential for longevity, health, and overall well-being. Strength is not an option—it is a must. The sooner people embrace this mindset, the better prepared they will be for whatever challenges life throws their way.

So, are you ready to get stronger? If so, give this video below a look, maybe it’ll spark your interests!