Martins Licis: A Journey of Resilience and Strength
In a remarkable blend of adventure and athleticism, Martins Licis, the champion of the 2019 World’s Strongest Man, is redefining the meaning of recovery after a setback. Following his withdrawal from the 2024 strongman season due to sciatica in his right leg, Licis has turned his focus towards exploration and showcasing spectacular feats of strength around the globe.
Embracing Adventure
Following his physical challenges, Licis set out on a journey that many may find unconventional for a strongman. His travels took him from the mud pits and sumo rings in Pakistan and Japan to the stunning heights of Georgia, where he lifted the renowned Svaneti Bell. Notably, he even delved into the depths of a nearly forgotten Filipino martial art called Arnis.
With a spirit of adventure, Licis ventured through Burkina Faso before arriving in Norway, where he faced perhaps his most audacious challenge yet: the daunting task of moving the Myklebust, a 16-ton reconstruction of a massive Viking ship.
The Challenge of Pulling a Viking Ship
The day of the event saw a surge of excitement as spectators gathered to witness Licis’s extraordinary attempt at pulling the Myklebust. This time, the sheer scale of the task hit him. “When facing a Goliath,” Licis remarked, “we pull out our metaphorical slingshot to take on the impossible.”
Key Strategies for Success:
- Preparation: Licis applied lifting chalk to enhance his grip and secured himself with a harness to pull the massive vessel.
- Technique: He adopted a 45-degree angle stance to maximize tension while pulling. This method is crucial for anyone looking to lift or pull heavy weights safely.
With adrenaline building, Licis started the pull, the crowd’s cheers propelling him forward. Inch by inch, he dragged the colossal ship out of the warehouse until he finally released the rope, standing tall, triumphant and filled with pride.
Rowing into History
His time in Norway didn’t end there. After pulling the ship, Licis embarked on an exhilarating adventure aboard the Myklebust. He joined fellow rowers, engaging in an inspiring experience that linked him to the rich history of the Vikings.
“I pulled the Myklebust out of the museum, and now I’m on it—really special,” he shared, reflecting on his unique journey.
Takeaways from Licis’s Adventure
Martins Licis’s recent endeavors offer several lessons for fitness enthusiasts and everyday individuals alike:
- Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Recovery from setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities.
- Step Outside Your Comfort Zone: Embrace new experiences; they can teach invaluable lessons about strength, endurance, and teamwork.
- Engage with Community: Surrounding yourself with supporters can fuel motivation and perseverance.
Get Inspired
Whether you’re a beginner just starting your fitness journey, a busy professional seeking creative ways to stay active, or a seasoned fitness enthusiast, let Licis’s story inspire you to tackle your own challenges head-on. Embrace the adventures that life offers; you never know how they might shape your path.
Remember, it’s not just about lifting weights—it’s about lifting your spirits and forging connections along the way. Get out there, take on your own "Goliaths," and witness the strength that lies within you!

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