Log Press Calculator
Your strict press hides a bigger number. The log press feels different than barbell overhead work due to the neutral grip and larger diameter. This calculator predicts your log press max based on your OHP, with adjustments for log diameter used by top coaches.
Enter Your Lifts
Calculating your log press predictions...
Your Log Press Prediction
Log Diameter Impact
Training Tips
About the Log Press Calculator
The log press is a signature strongman event that tests upper body pressing power in a unique way. Unlike barbell pressing, the log uses a neutral grip and has significantly more mass distributed away from the center of gravity due to its cylindrical shape. This calculator helps you predict your log press max based on your strict overhead press numbers.
How the Calculator Works
We use your strict overhead press 1RM as the primary input because it correlates strongly with log press performance. The calculation accounts for:
- OHP-to-Log Ratio: Most athletes press 85-95% of their strict press on a standard log
- Log Diameter: Larger logs (14") reduce max by about 5%, smaller logs (10") increase it
- Bodyweight Factor: Heavier athletes often have better log press transfer
Understanding Your Results
The Predicted Max is your estimated 1RM on the specified log diameter. The Training Max (90% of predicted) is a safer weight to use for programming sets and reps.
Tips for Improving Log Press
- Practice the clean frequently - getting the log to rack position is half the battle
- Build your strict press - it has the highest correlation to log press
- Train push press and Z-press for leg drive and core stability
- If your gym lacks a log, use an axle bar or thick-grip dumbbell pressing
Data is derived from analyzing competition results and training logs of strongman athletes at various levels. Predictions are most accurate for lifters with some log experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
The log is harder to press than a barbell due to its neutral grip, larger diameter, and the need to clean it first. Most athletes press 85-95% of their strict press on a standard 12" log. The thicker the log, the harder it becomes to stabilize overhead.
Yes! A 14" log is significantly harder than a 10" log. The larger diameter makes the clean more difficult (harder to get your elbows under), increases the moment arm, and requires more core stability. Competition logs are typically 12" diameter.
Both. Strict press builds raw pressing strength that transfers directly to log press. Push press teaches you to use leg drive effectively, which is how you'll press max weights in competition. A good program includes both.
Train with an axle bar (fat bar) if available - it provides similar grip challenge. Otherwise, focus on strict press, push press, and Z-press with a regular barbell. These will build the pressing strength you need. Practice on a log occasionally if possible.
For lifters with some log experience, predictions are typically within 5-10%. Complete beginners may see larger variations due to technique. If you've never touched a log, start conservatively and work up over several sessions.
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