The deadlift is often viewed as one of the greatest tests of strength across multiple sporting communities and the general public. However, its popularity has led to the creation of multiple variations of the lift, each having a unique element of impressiveness. One that has garnered a lot of attention as of late is the Deadlift With One Finger, largely thanks to fitness influencer Liu Weiqiang, who set a brand new World Record of 144.72 kilograms (319.05 pounds).
The setup that Liu Weiqiang used consisted of four 25-kilogram (55.1-pound) and two 20-kilogram (44.1-pound) plates, which were stacked onto a pole. The entire contraption was then attached to a carabiner, which Liu had to pick up with only one finger. Liu placed the apparatus between his legs, establishing what looked like a narrow sumo stance, since a conventional stance would practically make the lift impossible.
Liu Weiqiang opted to use his left hand, specifically his middle finger, to perform the 144.72-kilogram (319.05-pound) deadlift. The Chinese athlete lifted the weight with ease but had to show that he had control in the lift, which prompted him to hold the locked-out position for a substantial number of seconds. Liu’s facial expression proved that the lift was extremely painful, as it put a lot of pressure on just one finger. However, Liu then slowly lowered the weight back down to the floor, completing his lift and officially setting the World Record.
Liu Weiqiang broke the previous record, which was held by Egmond Molina, with a margin of 6 kilograms (13.2 pounds). Weiqiang performed the lift in February, but it was accepted by the Guinness Book of World Records in late July.
Watch Liu Weiqiang’s deadlift here:
Related: Strongwomen Izzy Tait & Sam Taylor Set a 454-kg (1,000-lb) Tandem Deadlift Guinness World Record
This is not the first time that Liu Weiqiang has imprinted his name into the Guinness Book of World Records, as he has performed some other unusual, but remarkable, feats of strength in the past. Some that stand out the most are his records for the Heaviest Weighted Pull-Up (240.7 lbs / 109.20 kg) and Heaviest Weighted Tricep Dip (340 lbs / 154.20 kg). This shows that Liu is a well-rounded athlete, excelling across a plethora of exercises.
Liu Weiqiang’s pursuit of world records has been going on for years, with 2023 being one of his most successful seasons. During that year, Liu set eight new records, proving to be one of the most intriguing athletes on earth. As if that wasn’t enough, the 29-year-old phenom achieved records while working a regular job as well.
“Since starting my job, I’ve had less time for fitness, and I’ve felt a bit slack. However, after proving myself through these records, I find fitness to be relaxing and enjoyable,” said Liu Weiqiang.
Check out Liu’s weighted tricep dip world record here:
Related: WATCH: Strongman Franz Muellner Lifts A Helicopter On His Shoulders – Guinness World Record
Liu Weiqiang’s records were proof of his strength across a couple of popular exercises, but his Deadlift With One Finger certainly holds value of its own. For reference, Liu used just one finger to pick up a weight equivalent to a washing machine and dryer combo, a lion, or even an average male black bear. So, his lift is clearly a marvelous achievement that sets him apart from everyone else in the world.
You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and
YouTube for even more content.
