Strongman Chris Gearing recently secured a 3rd place finish behind, Laurence Shahlei and Terry Hollands at Britain’s Strongest Man.
Whilst at first some people may be surprised at his result, just taking a look at his pedigree in strength sports points to a bright future in Strongman.
Phil Burgess: Tell us about yourself?
Chris Gearing: I am from Chatham in Kent, England.
I am 6 foot 2 inches (1.87m) and weigh 25 stone (159kg) and have been competing in Strongman for one and a half years.
I have always been atheltic, and at the age of 13 I started training in Shot Putt, after I realised I had a talent for it at school. I went on to compete in the World Under 18s, World Juniors, European Juniors, and won a silver and a bronze at the Commonwealth Games under 19s in Australia.
When I was 23, I began powerlifting and won British titles and came second in the World Junior 140kg+ category.
I always wanted to do Strongman from seeing it on the TV as a kid, and at around 24 began training properly for Strongman with my friend Sean Kennedy.
In the early days, Steve Winters guided me and lately Paul Woods (ex UK 105 champion) has been a big influence.
My training partner, Sean Kennedy and of course, my mum and dad, have also helped me to get where I am today.
Before this third place finish, I havent won any other titles in strongman.
Phil Burgess: Tell us a bit about how you train?
Chris Gearing: I train in the gym 2-3 times a week and practice for events 2-3 times a week. I have my own routine which I follow.
For the Giants Live competition I focused on my stamina and my grip and also making sure my deadlift was on form.
Phil Burgess: Tell us about when you compete?
Chris Gearing: Well my favourite event is Super Yoke because although I may not look it, I am quick as well as strong! My least favourite is arm over arm because I find the movements difficult.
In regards to competition day superstitions, I always wear the same lycra shorts, which I have had since my shot putting days.
I can control my nerves well from years of having to compete, including listening to the same playlist of music to help me relax.
Phil Burgess: What are your best lifts?
Chris Gearing: I recently pulled a 400kg Deadlift which is my personal record.
I have also Log Pressed 170kg and have done a 385kg Squat in competition.
Phil Burgess: What does your nutrition look like?
Chris Gearing: I don’t count calories and I dont take any supplements, my mums cooking is good enough!
Phil Burgess: What are your outstanding goals for 2012?
Chris Gearing: I havent officially qualified for Worlds Strongest Man yet, and my 2012 goal is to compete in the finals of WSM.
Phil Burgess: Who is the greatest strongman ever?
Chris Gearing: The greatest strongman is Bill Kazmaier because of his winners attitude.
Zydrunas Savickas inspires me the most however, because of his consistency and longevity in Strongman.
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