The Crucifix Hold

c. 1890 onwards · Static hold

In the crucifix hold the lifter stands upright with both arms extended straight out to the sides at shoulder height, a weight in each hand, so that the body forms a cross. In the old-time version the aim was the heaviest weights held momentarily; in modern strongman the weights are fixed and the event is scored on time.

Description

The weights — dumbbells, plates, or in modern contests axes, hammers or swords — are held at arm's length level with the shoulders, arms straight. The load on the shoulder is a matter of leverage: a weight held at full arm's length to the side is very heavy for the deltoids, so the weights used are small compared with pressing weights. The longer the implement and the further its weight sits from the hand, the harder the hold.

Strongman rules

Rules differ from contest to contest, but the usual form is:

• arms straight and level, raised out to the sides, held until the referee starts the clock;
• the time stops when either arm drops below a set line (often a sensor or a referee's judgement of horizontal), the elbows bend markedly, or an implement touches the body or a marker;
• the longest time wins.

The weight per hand is set by each competition. Contest records show modest weights: the 1986 World's Strongest Man used 12.5 kg in each hand, and other international contests have used 11–12.5 kg. Winning times are measured in tens of seconds. Where the implement is an axe or a long-handled hammer, the effective load is much greater than its weight suggests, because the weight sits far from the grip.

Historical figures

As a strength feat, the crucifix was judged by the heaviest weights held out. Louis Cyr is reported to have performed a crucifix on 7 and 8 May 1896 with 97¼ lb (about 44 kg) in the right hand and 88 lb (40 kg) in the left; some sources reverse the hands. Figures of this kind come from exhibitions and the strength press rather than refereed contests.

Not to be confused with

The gymnastic "iron cross" or "crucifix" on the rings, and the wrestling hold of the same name, are different things.