John Haack, the world record holder for the raw deadlift in the 90-kilogram class, is prepping for the WRPF The Ghost Clash 3 on April 6-7, 2024 in Miami, FL. On Feb. 23, 2024, Haack shared a glimpse of his deadlift training, pulling 410 kilograms (903.8 pounds) raw in a conventional stance — matching his all-time world record at 90 kilograms from the 2022 World Raw Powerlifting Federation (WRPF) American Pro.
Haack’s pull was also only five kilograms shy of his all-time personal best of 415 kilograms (914.9 pounds). Haack gave a behind-the-scenes look at his training for the 2024 The Ghost Clash 3 in the video below:
[Related: Emil Krastev (93KG) Exceeds the IPF Total World Record in Training]
Deadlifts & Pendlay Rows
During his deadlift session, Haack engaged in ramp-up sets — progressively increasing the weight of each set. He applied chalk to help prevent grip failure, employing a mixed grip — one hand pronated and the other supinated.
As the weight increased, Haack incorporated wrist wraps and a lifting belt to bolster his lower back while bracing. When handling lighter weights, Haack executed the repetitions swiftly and unbroken.
Haack gradually increased the weight to 410 kilograms for a single rep. As he ascended, the bar began to bow, but he completed the rep. He concluded his deadlift session with several drop sets at 280 kilograms (617.2 pounds).
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Haack executed accessory movements after his deadlift training, like Pendlay rows with 125 kilograms (275.5 pounds), leg presses, glute-ham raises, and calf raises.
Haack was content with his deadlift performance with two months left in his prep, noting:
It’s within about five kilos of my all-time best. To hit that at eight weeks out, I’m really happy with where I’m at.
[Related: Agata Sitko Is a Powerlifting Phenom, and It’s Time To Start Paying Attention]
Push Day
Haack concluded the video by showcasing his chest and shoulder training that featured bench presses with chains, neutral-grip dumbbell bench presses, dumbbell lateral raises, and dumbbell reverse flyes.
Haack will appear next on stage at the Arnold Sports Festival as a special guest lifter on Saturday, March 2, 2024. Guest athletes perform as spectacle for the audience, but do not receive winnings or medals. Haack will return to the powerlifting platform at the 2024 WRPF The Ghost Clash 3 in April.
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Featured Image: @bilbo_swaggins181 on Instagram
