Tyson Ridenour’s Breakthrough Deadlift: A Powerlifting Journey
On May 24, 2025, powerlifting enthusiasts gathered for an exclusive event at Larry Wheels’ One Gen Gym in Claremont, California. Among the celebrated lifters was Tyson Ridenour, a rising star in the sport, who captured attention with his impressive new personal record in the deadlift.
A Record-Breaking Moment
Ridenour first drew accolades in 2021, making headlines at just 19 years old with an astounding deadlift of 855 pounds (388 kg). Fast forward to May 28, 2025, and he’s eager to share updates on his latest achievements. At Larry Wheels’ private meet, which included powerlifting luminaries like Dan Green and Stefi Cohen, Ridenour aimed to push his limits.
The Private Meet Advantage
Larry Wheels noted that private meets are often better structured compared to larger competitions, where extended waiting periods can disrupt athletes’ focus and energy. With just 11 lifters and a compact four-hour format, the event allowed competitors to remain engaged and prepared, making it much easier to perform at their best.
“Smaller, well-organized meets provide invaluable experience for budding powerlifters,” Cohen emphasized, reinforcing the concept that practice makes perfect.
Ridenour’s Training and Strategy
When preparing for the bench press, Ridenour took a gradual approach to warm-up. Despite the challenges that arise from downtime before attempts—such as losing momentum—he successfully lifted 163 kg (360 lbs) in his final bench attempt. His strategy was intentional: warm up well to avoid fatigue and ensure he was primed for each lift.
Deadlifting to New Heights
Shifting his focus to deadlifts, Ridenour, who typically trains sumo-style, aimed for a new conventional deadlift record. Despite a lighter eating day, he found an unexpected advantage.
“Not eating too much can actually help with my deadlifts,” Ridenour shared, illustrating how individual strategies can vary in effectiveness.
After warming up with manageable weights, he executed a remarkable opener at 317.5 kg (700 lbs) without breaking a sweat. He then catapulted himself to a personal record with an impressive lift of 329 kg (725 lbs).
“I didn’t want to overextend myself today; health is key when competing frequently,” he remarked, acknowledging the importance of balance in long-term success.
The Takeaway
For anyone passionate about powerlifting or strength training, Ridenour’s experience is a treasure trove of insights:
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Warm Up Smartly: Take the time to gradually acclimate your body. Quick lifts can sometimes yield better results than prolonged waits.
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Focus on Nutrition: Fuel appropriately for your workouts—sometimes less is more.
- Stay Healthy: Balance your training frequency with adequate recovery to avoid injury and burnout.
In recovery or competition, Ridenour’s journey serves as a reminder that persistence, technique, and a supportive environment can lead to extraordinary achievements. As you set your goals—whether as a beginner or a seasoned athlete—remember to embrace the journey and learn from every lift.
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