Rolling Thunder deadlift handle

The standard for thick-bar one-hand deadlifts.

In 1990 Iron mind began selling a thick-handled deadlift handle because we recognized the challenges offered--whether used for competition or for training, there was a long history of thick-handled deadlifts humbling the uninitiated and rewarding those who trained patiently on it. As the product evolved, we found out that some guys were defeating the purpose of the lift by cupping the handle in a cocked wrist, effectively eliminating the element of grip which was the lifts raison detre--this made as little sense to us as it would to use this tool with a lifting strap, but thats a different story.

To preserve the spirit of the feat of strength, our Rolling Thunder Deadlift Handle has since become a staple of many grip contests, and our Contest Rules were designed to preserve the spirit of the feat of strength. Because it is both fun to use and provides an authentic test of hand strength, most of the worlds strongest-handed guys have given it a whirl; it is commonly used at top strongman contests as a kickoff event or as a way for the crowd to join in the fun. Youll want to grab one for yourself and gain big lower-arm benefits from one-hand deadlifts, doing reps or holds. Compare yourself to your own results or to guys like Magnus Samuelsson, Odd Haugen, or the Gillinghams.

See Rolling Thunder page at www.ironmind.com for some world record lifts.

Handle diameter 2-3/8".

Rolling Thunder™ Contest Rules

1) An authentic IronMind¨ Rolling Thunder™ handle must be used, it cannot have been modified in any way, and it must be inspected to ensure that it revolves freely. The lift starts with the weight in between the lifters feet. In the world championships (and the U.S. nationals), the 15" loading pin and large carabiner that IronMind¨ sells are used (this standardizes the lifting height). Any other loading pin and carabiner with the same dimensions could be used.

2) The lifter grabs the Rolling Thunder handle in approximately its center and lifts with the handle remaining approximately parallel to the ground. A thumbless grip is not permitted.

3) Any contact between the lifters hand and the non-revolving portion of the handle disqualifies the lift.

4) The lifter must fully straighten up; once standing straight, the lifter gets a down signal from the referee, and must then return the weight to the ground. Contact must be maintained between the lifters hand and the handle until the weight is resting on the floor. The referee then indicates whether the lift was passed or not.

5) In contest situations, we give the lifter one minute to complete the lift after his/her name is called; during that minute, there is no limit to how many times the lifter may try to complete the lift.

6) Ordinary chalk may be used on the lifters hand, but nothing else is permitted (tacky, for example, is specifically disallowed).