Description
This exercise involves carrying a large timber log across a specified distance. It primarily targets the back, shoulders, and legs.
How to Do StrongMan Timber Carry
- 1Setup
Position yourself at the center of the timber log, bending at your hips and knees while keeping your back straight. Grip the timber firmly with both hands, either underneath or around the sides, ensuring a secure hold.
- 2Setup
Take a deep breath, brace your core tightly, and lift the timber by extending your hips and knees, standing upright. Ensure the log is balanced across your upper back and shoulders, or held securely in front of you, depending on the log's design.
- 3
Begin walking forward with small, controlled steps, keeping your chest up, shoulders back, and core braced throughout the movement. Maintain a steady, rhythmic pace, focusing on balance and stability.
- 4
Breathe consistently, taking shallow breaths if necessary, but avoid holding your breath for extended periods. Continue carrying the timber for the prescribed distance or duration, maintaining your strong posture.
- 5
To set the timber down, reverse the lifting motion: slowly bend at your hips and knees, keeping your back straight, until the log is safely on the ground. Release your grip only when the log is stable.
Tips
- Maintain a rigid torso and braced core throughout the entire carry to protect your spine and efficiently transfer force.
- Focus your gaze forward, slightly above eye level, to help maintain an upright posture and improve overall balance.
- Take shorter, deliberate steps rather than long strides to maintain better control and stability with the heavy, awkward load.
- Practice the lift and set-down technique with an unloaded or lighter object first to ensure safety and proper mechanics.
Common Mistakes
- ×Rounding the back during the lift or carry can lead to severe injury; always maintain a neutral spine by bracing your core and keeping your chest up.
- ×Losing core tension causes instability and inefficient movement; actively engage your abs and glutes to create a rigid foundation for the carry.
- ×Taking overly large strides can throw you off balance and increase the risk of stumbling; use shorter, controlled steps to maintain stability.
Variations

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