Exercise

Log Lift

Also known as: log press, strongman log press, axle log press

Log Lift is a compound exercise for the shoulders, quadriceps and glutes. Main target: anterior deltoid, vastus lateralis and gluteus maximus. Also works: triceps lateral head, triceps long head, traps, middle chest, biceps femoris, lower back, middle back and upper abs. Equipment: other.

EquipmentOther

TypeCompound (multi-joint)

MovementPush

CategoryStrongman

Muscles worked

Primary

Anterior deltoid Vastus lateralis Gluteus maximus

Secondary

Triceps lateral head Triceps long head Traps Middle chest Biceps femoris Lower back Middle back Upper abs

How to do it

Begin standing with the log in front of you. Grasp the handles, and begin to clean the log. As you are bent over to start the clean, attempt to get the log as high as possible, pulling it into your chest. Extend through the hips and knees to bring it up to complete the clean.
Push your head back and look up, creating a shelf on your chest to rest the log. Begin the press by dipping, flexing slightly through the knees and reversing the motion. This push press will generate momentum to start the log moving vertically. Continue by extending through the elbows to press the log above your head. There are no strict rules on form, so use whatever techniques you are most efficient with. As the log is pressed, ensure that you push your head through on each repetition, looking forward.
Repeat as many times as possible. Attempt to control the descent of the log as it is returned to the ground.