USA
Added by JakeE
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| Regions | Array ( [0] => Array ( [region_id] => 46 [approval_status] => approved [region_name] => Rhode Island [region_slug] => rhode-island [parent_region_ids] => [3] [nested_region_ids] => [46] [latitude] => [longitude] => [created_at] => 2025-06-25 [creator] => Array ( [created_by_id] => 1 [display_name] => JakeE [profile_image] => JakeE_682e0fa94e841.jpg ) [images] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [stone_id] => 65 [stone_name] => The Squantum Tooth [image_id] => 63 [image_src] => TheSquantumTooth_685c4c27d1f5a.jpg [created_by_id] => 1 ) [1] => Array ( [stone_id] => 64 [stone_name] => The Shield and the Stone [image_id] => 62 [image_src] => TheShieldandtheStone_685c4b6b6614b.jpg [created_by_id] => 1 ) ) [parent_region] => Array ( [parent_region_id] => 3 [parent_region_name] => USA ) [region] => Array ( [region_id] => 46 [region_name] => Rhode Island [region_slug] => rhode-island [description] => ***<a href=\"https://www.instagram.com/newenglandstonelifting\" target=\"blank\">New England Stone Lifting</a>***\r\nThese folks are all about building \"future history\" because, unlike some parts of the world, New England doesn\'t have a long documented history of specific lifting stones. As the NESL founder puts it, \"STONES ARE FOR EVERYONE,\" emphasizing a super inclusive and positive community vibe that\'s all about pushing yourself.\r\n\r\n***<a href=\"https://www.thetopstrengthproject.com/\" target=\"blank\">The TOP Strength Project in Pawtucket</a>***\r\nThey host competitions like \"<a href=\"https://ironpodium.com/browse/event/uss-rhode-islands-strongest-man-and-woman-iii\" target=\"blank\">USS Rhode Island\'s Strongest Man and Woman III</a>\" and \"<a href=\"https://www.thetopstrengthproject.com/upcoming-events\" target=\"blank\">Ocean State\'s Strongest Man + Woman.</a>\" These events feature Atlas Stones, among other heavy lifts, and attract a dedicated crowd. You\'ll find lifters training hard with specific programs, proving that even in a small state, the passion for raw strength runs deep. While natural lifting stone finds might be rarer than in some other regions, the strongman community ensures there\'s always a challenge to be found and a supportive crew to cheer you on. ) ) [1] => Array ( [region_id] => 39 [approval_status] => approved [region_name] => Virginia [region_slug] => virginia [parent_region_ids] => [3] [nested_region_ids] => [40] [latitude] => [longitude] => [created_at] => 2025-06-24 [creator] => Array ( [created_by_id] => 1 [display_name] => JakeE [profile_image] => JakeE_682e0fa94e841.jpg ) [images] => Array ( ) [parent_region] => Array ( [parent_region_id] => 3 [parent_region_name] => USA ) [region] => Array ( [region_id] => 39 [region_name] => Virginia [region_slug] => virginia [description] => You\'ll find a growing number of gyms and communities where people are training with Atlas Stones and other implements, prepping for competitions. Events like the <a href=\"https://www.starcitystrongfest.com/\" target=\"blank\">Star City Strong Fest</a> in Roanoke are big draws, combining strength challenges with a community wellness vibe. ) ) [2] => Array ( [region_id] => 38 [approval_status] => approved [region_name] => Ohio [region_slug] => ohio [parent_region_ids] => [3] [nested_region_ids] => [45] [latitude] => [longitude] => [created_at] => 2025-06-18 [creator] => Array ( [created_by_id] => 2 [display_name] => MrFf [profile_image] => MrFf_68201687a031c.png ) [images] => Array ( ) [parent_region] => Array ( [parent_region_id] => 3 [parent_region_name] => USA ) [region] => Array ( [region_id] => 38 [region_name] => Ohio [region_slug] => ohio [description] => You might not expect it, but Ohio actually has a pretty strong and passionate stone lifting scene! While we don\'t have mountains loaded with natural challenges, the community here is really dedicated, and they make their own opportunities. As one person mentioned online, it\'s about connecting with what\'s available, even if that means digging stones out of your own backyard!\r\n\r\nA huge highlight for stone lifting in Ohio is definitely the Ohio Stones of Strength competition, which happens at the <a href=\"https://dublinirishfestival.org/\" target=\"blank\">Dublin Irish Festival</a> every August. It\'s a big deal, featuring everything from stone throwing and pressing to Atlas Stones over a bar.\r\n\r\nYou\'ll also find other strongman events like <a href=\"https://ironpodium.com/browse/event/ohio-s-strongest-man\" target=\"blank\">Ohio\'s Strongest</a> in Youngstown, often featuring various stone events. ) ) [3] => Array ( [region_id] => 36 [approval_status] => approved [region_name] => South Carolina [region_slug] => south-carolina [parent_region_ids] => [3] [nested_region_ids] => [36,37] [latitude] => [longitude] => [created_at] => 2025-06-18 [creator] => Array ( [created_by_id] => 2 [display_name] => MrFf [profile_image] => MrFf_68201687a031c.png ) [images] => Array ( ) [parent_region] => Array ( [parent_region_id] => 3 [parent_region_name] => USA ) [region] => Array ( [region_id] => 36 [region_name] => South Carolina [region_slug] => south-carolina [description] => \"Out here in the mountains, you can find some serious natural stones if you\'re willing to hike a bit, but down by the coast, it\'s pretty much all Atlas Stones in the gym.\"\r\n\r\n\"Trying to tacky up and lift heavy when it\'s 90 degrees and 90% humidity? That\'s a whole other kind of strength,\"\r\n\r\nThe strongman and strongwoman communities in cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Charleston are super active, always hosting events where you\'ll see people grinding it out with the stones. The humidity can be a real factor, too.\r\n\r\nNotable Events:\r\n<a href=\"https://ironpodium.com/browse/event/south-carolina-s-strongest-disabled-man-woman-2023\" target=\"blank\">South Carolina\'s Strongest Man & Woman</a> ) ) [4] => Array ( [region_id] => 34 [approval_status] => approved [region_name] => Florida [region_slug] => florida [parent_region_ids] => [3] [nested_region_ids] => [34,35] [latitude] => [longitude] => [created_at] => 2025-06-17 [creator] => Array ( [created_by_id] => 1 [display_name] => JakeE [profile_image] => JakeE_682e0fa94e841.jpg ) [images] => Array ( ) [parent_region] => Array ( [parent_region_id] => 3 [parent_region_name] => USA ) [region] => Array ( [region_id] => 34 [region_name] => Florida [region_slug] => florida [description] => \"It\'s definitely a different kind of challenge with this humidity,\"\r\n\"You\'re sweating before you even grab the stone, which makes the grip even harder!\"\r\n\r\nSince we don\'t have a lot of natural boulders just lying around like up north or out west, most of the action happens with purpose-built Atlas Stones in gyms across hot spots like Orlando, Tampa, and Miami. Still, some adventurous types love hitting the beaches, where the soft sand and crashing waves add a whole new dynamic to carrying heavy, smooth ocean stones. ) ) [5] => Array ( [region_id] => 29 [approval_status] => approved [region_name] => Colorado [region_slug] => colorado [parent_region_ids] => [3] [nested_region_ids] => [29,30,31,32,33] [latitude] => [longitude] => [created_at] => 2025-06-09 [creator] => Array ( [created_by_id] => 1 [display_name] => JakeE [profile_image] => JakeE_682e0fa94e841.jpg ) [images] => Array ( ) [parent_region] => Array ( [parent_region_id] => 3 [parent_region_name] => USA ) [region] => Array ( [region_id] => 29 [region_name] => Colorado [region_slug] => colorado [description] => ***Colorado Springs:*** You\'ve got the more organized strongman and strongwoman community, which is super active and growing fast, with gyms that are really well-equipped for Atlas Stone training and other heavy lifts. There\'s a fantastic vibe of pushing limits and supporting each other. These events are always a highlight, and you\'ll often see stone lifting competitions drawing in big crowds.\r\n\r\n***Crested Butte:*** While it\'s known for skiing and biking, the rugged, high-alpine environment means there are natural lifting challenges around every corner for those who seek them out. It\'s that blend of hardcore outdoor living and a passion for strength that makes Colorado\'s stone lifting scene pretty special. ) ) [6] => Array ( [region_id] => 13 [approval_status] => approved [region_name] => Utah [region_slug] => utah-1 [parent_region_ids] => [3] [nested_region_ids] => [13] [latitude] => [longitude] => [created_at] => 2025-05-17 [creator] => Array ( [created_by_id] => 3 [display_name] => Troykostelecky [profile_image] => Troykostelecky_682fe3cf0336b.png ) [images] => Array ( ) [parent_region] => Array ( [parent_region_id] => 3 [parent_region_name] => USA ) [region] => Array ( [region_id] => 13 [region_name] => Utah [region_slug] => utah-1 [description] => The state of Utah home of the Utah Stones of Strength ) ) [7] => Array ( [region_id] => 12 [approval_status] => approved [region_name] => Pennsylvania [region_slug] => pennsylvania [parent_region_ids] => [3] [nested_region_ids] => [23,41,42,43,44] [latitude] => [longitude] => [created_at] => 2025-05-12 [creator] => Array ( [created_by_id] => 2 [display_name] => MrFf [profile_image] => MrFf_68201687a031c.png ) [images] => Array ( ) [parent_region] => Array ( [parent_region_id] => 3 [parent_region_name] => USA ) [region] => Array ( [region_id] => 12 [region_name] => Pennsylvania [region_slug] => pennsylvania [description] => While Pennsylvania might not be as globally renowned for its historical association with stone lifting as Scotland or Iceland, the rugged terrain and abundance of natural stone have undoubtedly fostered a culture of strength and manual labor where moving heavy stones would have been a common necessity. Historically, in rural Pennsylvania, particularly in farming and early industrial communities, individuals would have encountered and moved substantial stones for various purposes, from clearing fields and building fences to constructing foundations and even as impromptu tests of strength amongst peers. The types of stones prevalent in Pennsylvania, such as fieldstones (often granite, gneiss, or quartzite), sandstone, and limestone, would have presented varied challenges in terms of shape, size, and weight, naturally leading to the development of techniques for lifting and carrying them.\r\n\r\nIn a more formalized sense, the spirit of stone lifting likely manifests in Pennsylvania through strongman competitions that have gained popularity in recent decades. While not exclusively focused on natural, oddly shaped stones of the past, these modern events often include \"Atlas Stones\" – large, spherical concrete stones that pay homage to the historical practice. These competitions draw athletes from across the state and beyond, testing their raw power and lifting prowess against progressively heavier stones. Furthermore, the tradition of feats of strength, often involving heavy and unwieldy objects, resonates with the blue-collar history of many regions in Pennsylvania, where physical labor and demonstrable strength were highly valued. Therefore, while specific historical records of organized \"stone lifting\" events akin to the Highland Games might be less prominent, the underlying culture of strength, the presence of heavy natural stones, and the modern strongman movement firmly root the spirit of stone lifting within the physical landscape and athletic pursuits of Pennsylvania. ) ) [8] => Array ( [region_id] => 11 [approval_status] => approved [region_name] => Oregon [region_slug] => oregon-1 [parent_region_ids] => [3] [nested_region_ids] => [11] [latitude] => [longitude] => [created_at] => 2025-05-12 [creator] => Array ( [created_by_id] => 1 [display_name] => JakeE [profile_image] => JakeE_682e0fa94e841.jpg ) [images] => Array ( ) [parent_region] => Array ( [parent_region_id] => 3 [parent_region_name] => USA ) [region] => Array ( [region_id] => 11 [region_name] => Oregon [region_slug] => oregon-1 [description] => Stone lifting in Oregon, while not boasting the deep historical traditions of Scotland or Iceland, has seen a growing and enthusiastic community embrace the raw strength and unique challenge of lifting natural and crafted stones. Fueled by the broader rise of strongman competitions and a desire for unconventional tests of power, Oregonian stone lifters often seek out the state\'s diverse geological landscape, utilizing river stones, basalt boulders, and quarried remnants. The quality of these natural rocks varies greatly, offering a spectrum of textures, weights, and shapes that demand adaptability and technique, while the crafting of concrete Atlas stones also provides a consistent and measurable challenge within the local strength sports scene. ) ) [9] => Array ( [region_id] => 7 [approval_status] => denied [region_name] => Utah old [region_slug] => utah [parent_region_ids] => [3] [nested_region_ids] => 1 [latitude] => [longitude] => [created_at] => 2025-05-10 [creator] => Array ( [created_by_id] => 1 [display_name] => JakeE [profile_image] => JakeE_682e0fa94e841.jpg ) [images] => Array ( ) [parent_region] => Array ( [parent_region_id] => 3 [parent_region_name] => USA ) [region] => Array ( [region_id] => 7 [region_name] => Utah old [region_slug] => utah [description] => Stone lifting in Utah is a growing facet of the strongman community, with a dedicated following highlighted by events like the Utah Stones of Strength competition. While Utah may not have the ancient, established stone lifting traditions of some European countries, its diverse geological landscape provides a wealth of natural stones, including river rocks and various sedimentary formations like sandstone and limestone. The quality of these stones can vary considerably in terms of texture, shape, and stability, offering unique and often challenging lifting experiences, alongside the use of standardized concrete Atlas stones in competitions. ) ) [10] => Array ( [region_id] => 6 [approval_status] => denied [region_name] => DEV ONLY edit [region_slug] => dev-only [parent_region_ids] => [3] [nested_region_ids] => 1 [latitude] => [longitude] => [created_at] => 2025-05-10 [creator] => Array ( [created_by_id] => 1 [display_name] => JakeE [profile_image] => JakeE_682e0fa94e841.jpg ) [images] => Array ( ) [parent_region] => Array ( [parent_region_id] => 3 [parent_region_name] => USA ) [region] => Array ( [region_id] => 6 [region_name] => DEV ONLY edit [region_slug] => dev-only [description] => For Demonstration Purposes Only! This is not a real region. Used for site functionality testing. ) ) [11] => Array ( [region_id] => 3 [approval_status] => approved [region_name] => USA [region_slug] => usa [parent_region_ids] => [] [nested_region_ids] => [11,12,13,14,16,17,18,29,30,31,32,33,34,35,36,37,38,39,40,41,42,43,44,45,46] [latitude] => [longitude] => [created_at] => 2025-05-09 [creator] => Array ( [created_by_id] => 1 [display_name] => JakeE [profile_image] => JakeE_682e0fa94e841.jpg ) [images] => Array ( ) [parent_region] => Array ( [parent_region_id] => 0 [parent_region_name] => ) [region] => Array ( [region_id] => 3 [region_name] => USA [region_slug] => usa [description] => The rock lifting or stone lifting experience in the USA is a growing niche within strength sports, drawing inspiration from ancient traditions worldwide, particularly those of Scotland and Iceland. It blends raw power, unique technique, and a connection to history, offering a different challenge compared to traditional barbell lifting.\r\n\r\n*History in the USA:*\r\nWhile the USA doesn\'t have the same deep, continuous history of formalized stone lifting as some European countries, the spirit of lifting heavy, natural objects for strength and competition has always existed.\r\n\r\n***Early Influences:*** The growth of strongman competitions in the late 20th and early 21st centuries introduced Americans to iconic lifting stones like the Húsafell Stone and the Dinnie Stones through international events. This sparked interest in the unique demands of lifting irregularly shaped, often massive stones.\r\n***Modern Revival:*** Individuals and smaller groups began seeking out and replicating the stone lifting experience. This often involved finding suitable natural stones or crafting concrete \"Atlas Stones\" to mimic the challenge.\r\n***Highland Games Connection:*** Scottish Highland Games, popular in the USA, often feature stone lifting events, providing a competitive outlet and preserving some of the traditional styles.\r\n***Growth of Dedicated Events:*** More recently, dedicated stone lifting events and challenges have emerged across the USA, sometimes featuring replica historic stones or unique, locally sourced stones. The internet and social media have played a significant role in connecting enthusiasts and documenting these feats.\r\n\r\n*Style of Stones:*\r\nThe \"style\" of stones encountered in the USA is varied:\r\n***Natural, Unshaped Stones:*** True to the historical roots, many American stone lifting experiences involve lifting natural stones found in the local environment. These can be river stones, field stones, or quarried pieces, each with a unique shape, weight distribution, and surface texture, making every lift a novel challenge.\r\n***Atlas Stones:*** These are smooth, round concrete spheres of varying weights, commonly used in strongman competitions. While not \"natural,\" they embody the style of lifting an awkward, heavy object. American companies specialize in crafting these stones. \r\n***Replica Historic Stones:*** Some events and individuals have created replicas of famous European lifting stones like the Dinnie Stones or the Inver Stones to bring those specific challenges to the USA. \r\n***Locally Famous Stones:*** Certain regions or events might feature stones with their own local history or legend, adding a unique flavor to the experience. Examples include stones found at specific Highland Games or strongman gatherings.\r\n***Manhood Stones:*** Following the strongman tradition, particularly popularized at the Arnold Strongman Classic, very heavy Atlas Stones (often over 500 lbs) are sometimes referred to as \"Manhood Stones,\" representing a significant feat of strength. ) ) ) |
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| Region | Array ( [region_id] => 3 [approval_status] => approved [region_name] => USA [region_slug] => usa [parent_region_ids] => [] [nested_region_ids] => [11,12,13,14,16,17,18,29,30,31,32,33,34,35,36,37,38,39,40,41,42,43,44,45,46] [latitude] => [longitude] => [created_at] => 2025-05-09 [creator] => Array ( [created_by_id] => 1 [display_name] => JakeE [profile_image] => JakeE_682e0fa94e841.jpg ) [images] => Array ( ) [parent_region] => Array ( [parent_region_id] => 0 [parent_region_name] => ) [region] => Array ( [region_id] => 3 [region_name] => USA [region_slug] => usa [description] => The rock lifting or stone lifting experience in the USA is a growing niche within strength sports, drawing inspiration from ancient traditions worldwide, particularly those of Scotland and Iceland. It blends raw power, unique technique, and a connection to history, offering a different challenge compared to traditional barbell lifting.\r\n\r\n*History in the USA:*\r\nWhile the USA doesn\'t have the same deep, continuous history of formalized stone lifting as some European countries, the spirit of lifting heavy, natural objects for strength and competition has always existed.\r\n\r\n***Early Influences:*** The growth of strongman competitions in the late 20th and early 21st centuries introduced Americans to iconic lifting stones like the Húsafell Stone and the Dinnie Stones through international events. This sparked interest in the unique demands of lifting irregularly shaped, often massive stones.\r\n***Modern Revival:*** Individuals and smaller groups began seeking out and replicating the stone lifting experience. This often involved finding suitable natural stones or crafting concrete \"Atlas Stones\" to mimic the challenge.\r\n***Highland Games Connection:*** Scottish Highland Games, popular in the USA, often feature stone lifting events, providing a competitive outlet and preserving some of the traditional styles.\r\n***Growth of Dedicated Events:*** More recently, dedicated stone lifting events and challenges have emerged across the USA, sometimes featuring replica historic stones or unique, locally sourced stones. The internet and social media have played a significant role in connecting enthusiasts and documenting these feats.\r\n\r\n*Style of Stones:*\r\nThe \"style\" of stones encountered in the USA is varied:\r\n***Natural, Unshaped Stones:*** True to the historical roots, many American stone lifting experiences involve lifting natural stones found in the local environment. These can be river stones, field stones, or quarried pieces, each with a unique shape, weight distribution, and surface texture, making every lift a novel challenge.\r\n***Atlas Stones:*** These are smooth, round concrete spheres of varying weights, commonly used in strongman competitions. While not \"natural,\" they embody the style of lifting an awkward, heavy object. American companies specialize in crafting these stones. \r\n***Replica Historic Stones:*** Some events and individuals have created replicas of famous European lifting stones like the Dinnie Stones or the Inver Stones to bring those specific challenges to the USA. \r\n***Locally Famous Stones:*** Certain regions or events might feature stones with their own local history or legend, adding a unique flavor to the experience. Examples include stones found at specific Highland Games or strongman gatherings.\r\n***Manhood Stones:*** Following the strongman tradition, particularly popularized at the Arnold Strongman Classic, very heavy Atlas Stones (often over 500 lbs) are sometimes referred to as \"Manhood Stones,\" representing a significant feat of strength. ) ) |
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| Stone | Array ( [approval_status] => approved [creator] => Array ( [created_by_id] => 3 [display_name] => Troykostelecky [profile_image] => Troykostelecky_682fe3cf0336b.png ) [images] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [stone_id] => 17 [stone_name] => Dryad [image_id] => 23 [image_src] => Dryad_682fdcb2212fa.jpg [created_at] => 2025-05-22 [created_by_id] => 3 [description] => Dryad stone [display_name] => Troykostelecky [profile_image] => Troykostelecky_682fe3cf0336b.png ) ) [region] => Array ( [region_id] => 14 [region_name] => Dryad Pit ) [stone] => Array ( [stone_id] => 17 [stone_name] => Dryad [description] => The Dryad is a local favorite, spherical like an atlas stone but just enough shape to make the technique a little different. A successful lift of the Dryad is to the shoulder. [latitude] => 40.57182431 [longitude] => -111.77642214 [weight] => 276 [difficulty_scale] => 3 [rating] => 3 [founder] => Alex Burlison [created_at] => 2025-05-22 ) [user_interactions] => Array ( ) ) |
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Rhode Island ) ) [39] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [region_id] => 3 [parent_region_id] => 0 [region_name] => USA ) [1] => Array ( [region_id] => 39 [parent_region_id] => 3 [region_name] => Virginia ) ) [38] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [region_id] => 3 [parent_region_id] => 0 [region_name] => USA ) [1] => Array ( [region_id] => 38 [parent_region_id] => 3 [region_name] => Ohio ) ) [36] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [region_id] => 3 [parent_region_id] => 0 [region_name] => USA ) [1] => Array ( [region_id] => 36 [parent_region_id] => 3 [region_name] => South Carolina ) ) [34] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [region_id] => 3 [parent_region_id] => 0 [region_name] => USA ) [1] => Array ( [region_id] => 34 [parent_region_id] => 3 [region_name] => Florida ) ) [29] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [region_id] => 3 [parent_region_id] => 0 [region_name] => USA ) [1] => Array ( [region_id] => 29 [parent_region_id] => 3 [region_name] => Colorado ) ) [13] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [region_id] => 3 [parent_region_id] => 0 [region_name] => USA ) [1] => Array ( [region_id] => 13 [parent_region_id] => 3 [region_name] => Utah ) ) [12] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [region_id] => 3 [parent_region_id] => 0 [region_name] => USA ) [1] => Array ( [region_id] => 12 [parent_region_id] => 3 [region_name] => Pennsylvania ) ) [11] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [region_id] => 3 [parent_region_id] => 0 [region_name] => USA ) [1] => Array ( [region_id] => 11 [parent_region_id] => 3 [region_name] => Oregon ) ) [7] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [region_id] => 3 [parent_region_id] => 0 [region_name] => USA ) [1] => Array ( [region_id] => 7 [parent_region_id] => 3 [region_name] => Utah old ) ) [6] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [region_id] => 3 [parent_region_id] => 0 [region_name] => USA ) [1] => Array ( [region_id] => 6 [parent_region_id] => 3 [region_name] => DEV ONLY edit ) ) [14] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [region_id] => 3 [parent_region_id] => 0 [region_name] => USA ) [1] => Array ( [region_id] => 13 [parent_region_id] => 3 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The rock lifting or stone lifting experience in the USA is a growing niche within strength sports, drawing inspiration from ancient traditions worldwide, particularly those of Scotland and Iceland. It blends raw power, unique technique, and a connection to history, offering a different challenge compared to traditional barbell lifting.
While the USA doesn't have the same deep, continuous history of formalized stone lifting as some European countries, the spirit of lifting heavy, natural objects for strength and competition has always existed.
Early Influences: The growth of strongman competitions in the late 20th and early 21st centuries introduced Americans to iconic lifting stones like the Húsafell Stone and the Dinnie Stones through international events. This sparked interest in the unique demands of lifting irregularly shaped, often massive stones.
Modern Revival: Individuals and smaller groups began seeking out and replicating the stone lifting experience. This often involved finding suitable natural stones or crafting concrete "Atlas Stones" to mimic the challenge.
Highland Games Connection: Scottish Highland Games, popular in the USA, often feature stone lifting events, providing a competitive outlet and preserving some of the traditional styles.
Growth of Dedicated Events: More recently, dedicated stone lifting events and challenges have emerged across the USA, sometimes featuring replica historic stones or unique, locally sourced stones. The internet and social media have played a significant role in connecting enthusiasts and documenting these feats.
The "style" of stones encountered in the USA is varied:
Natural, Unshaped Stones: True to the historical roots, many American stone lifting experiences involve lifting natural stones found in the local environment. These can be river stones, field stones, or quarried pieces, each with a unique shape, weight distribution, and surface texture, making every lift a novel challenge.
Atlas Stones: These are smooth, round concrete spheres of varying weights, commonly used in strongman competitions. While not "natural," they embody the style of lifting an awkward, heavy object. American companies specialize in crafting these stones.
Replica Historic Stones: Some events and individuals have created replicas of famous European lifting stones like the Dinnie Stones or the Inver Stones to bring those specific challenges to the USA.
Locally Famous Stones: Certain regions or events might feature stones with their own local history or legend, adding a unique flavor to the experience. Examples include stones found at specific Highland Games or strongman gatherings.
Manhood Stones: Following the strongman tradition, particularly popularized at the Arnold Strongman Classic, very heavy Atlas Stones (often over 500 lbs) are sometimes referred to as "Manhood Stones," representing a significant feat of strength.
