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Old-Time Strength: George Hackenschmidt

(This is the fourth in a series looking at old time strongmen and bodybuilders and the training methods and programs they followed. Note: The set, reps and weight used will be left out so you can tailor the program to fit your needs and strength levels.)

Hackenschmidt was was an early 20th-century strongman and professional wrestler. Nicknamed “The Russian Lion”, Hackenschmidt was actually from Estonia.

He became a pro wrestler, back when it was real fighting, after being trained by fellow countryman, Georg Lurich. Hackenschmidt won the European Greco-Roman Heavyweight Championship from Tom Cannon on September 4, 1902 in Liverpool, England. This title gave Hackenschmidt a legitimate claim as the World Champion of professional wrestling, a title that was cemented when Hackenschmidt defeated American Heavyweight Champion Tom Jenkins on May 4, 1905 in New York, New York to become the first recognized World Heavyweight Wrestling Champion.

Hackenschmidt held the title and remained undefeated until his match with Frank Gotch in 1908. He would later lose to Gotch again in a rematch, thanks in part to a badly injured knee. They were the only losses in his professional wrestling career. He had won over 3,000 matches in his career.

He could support an average size horse on his shoulders and walk with it and equally resist the pull of opposing horses. He made many weight lifting records some of which lasted for over 50 years, but continued to practice most of all wrestling which in itself built up great power especially in his neck and lower back.

In weightlifting circles he is perhaps best known for’ his’ version of the squat, I.e. ‘Hack squats’ where the barbell is held behind the thighs. Back in 1902 he made 550 reps with 110lbs in this difficult style.

Equally powerful in the shoulders he could hold out sideways at shoulder length in a style called the Crucifix, 2 x 90lbs dumbbells. Much in line with Martial arts thinking he paid particular attention to leg power and speed and in 1902 for a wager, he jumped over a table, i.e. standing jumps, 100 times in succession. This ability lasted with him even when 85 years of age, he could still do standing jumps over a chair back.

Hackenschmidt died on Feb 19th 1968 at St Francis Hospital Dulwich, England. He was 90 years of age.

Hackenschmidt never had just one training program. He would vary his routines constantly and never had a set regimen. Here is one of the routines he followed.

Overhead Press
Hack Squats
Bodyweight Squats
Bench Press
One-Hand Dumbbell Press
Neck Extensions
Farmer’s Walk

Notes: Train consistently 2-3 days per week and add weight to the bar whenever possible and get lots of rest, eat good food and drink plenty of water.

Understand that to be successful in any weight training program – hard work is a must! Half-hearted effort does nothing for you. If you’re new to weight training or grossly out of shape, consult a physician first. End of disclaimer.

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