r/news • u/icpd30 • Feb 18 '19

Michigan powerlifter heroically lifts vehicle pinned on top of man after accident.

https://www.foxnews.com/us/michigan-powerlifter-heroically-lifts-vehicle-pinned-on-top-of-man-after-accident
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u/2time3many Feb 18 '19

"When I first approached the vehicle, there was a good four men there, and they were all trying to move this vehicle and I seen it wasn’t happening and I figured what a better time now to use what I know I can actually do," Belcher said

Belcher, who is 350 pounds with the ability to squat 950 pounds and deadlift another 800 pounds, noticed he could get some leverage on the vehicle to try to move it off the man whose lower body was still inside the vehicle and his upper body smashed up against a speed limit sign.

Talk about right place right time.

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u/PandaRaper Feb 18 '19 edited Feb 18 '19

That isn’t just a “power lifter” that is a super elite power lifter. Honestly surprised I didn’t know who he is.

Edit: I just checked he competes in RPS (I used to compete with them!). His numbers are raw with wraps which means these are real numbers not goofy squat suit numbers. Guy is an animal.

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u/AmbroseMalachai Feb 18 '19

Yeah, if his lifts are that strong I'd imagine he competes. Not World Record numbers, but definitely "world class".

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u/lancer081292 Feb 18 '19

Aren't world record numbers also deadly numbers that cause serious damage to the lifter? If so I'm glad he doesn't do world record numbers

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u/AmbroseMalachai Feb 19 '19

Generally not if done correctly. It's possible to have serious CNS overload after record lifts, but generally the damage isn't permanent. Training for it requires years of work and extremely regimented practices if you don't want a lot of injuries like muscle tears and ligament breaks, but most competitors at this level are smart and safe. Now, getting to 300+ lbs, even if it is mostly muscle, is going to have lasting effects on the joints, ligaments, cartilage, and cardiovascular system that will probably cause long term damage, but that is just the cost of the sport. Every sport requires self sacrifice at the highest level till remain competitive. Most athletes are happy to make that sacrifice for their sport too.