Today we’re talking to powerlifting legend David Ricks. David has been in the sport for nearly 40 years, with a competition history dating all the way back to 1981. Throughout that time, he’s won numerous national, world, and invitational championships, earning him the nickname “Superman.” After a brief hiatus in the sport in his mid-50s, David came roaring back to compete at a high level in his late 50s. And in 2017, at 58 years old, he broke an OPEN world record in the squat, sinking 325kg at the Arnold Sports Festival. Now 61 years old, Ricks is still competing — and often winning — against lifters of all ages. We discuss his training mindset and some serious wisdom after an unparalleled career in the sport.
On this episode of The BarBend Podcast, host David Thomas Tao talks to David Ricks about:
- David Ricks’ 40-year powerlifting career (2:58)
- David’s supplement regimen and commitment to clean sport (5:30)
- Taking time off and allowing your body to recover as you age (9:10)
- Breaking an open squat record at 58 years old (13:30)
- The game plan for eventually winning the CrossFit Games (17:30)
- Powerlifting in the pre-internet days (and relying on magazines to determine records) (21:30)
- The biggest development in powerlifting since 1980 (24:00)
Relevant links and further reading:
