The Silver Dollar Deadlift is a strongman event that tests your max strength from an elevated starting position. This lift uses plates the size of old silver dollars, raising the bar about 18 inches off the ground.
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how this lift works, the proper technique, and how it differs from regular deadlifts. You’ll learn about current world records, training methods, and safety tips to help you succeed.
I’ve been coaching strength athletes for over a decade, and I’ve seen this event challenge even the strongest competitors. Let’s break down everything you need to know about this demanding strongman event.
What Is the Silver Dollar Deadlift?
The Silver Dollar Deadlift is a strongman competition event where athletes lift maximum weight from an 18-inch elevated starting position. The name comes from the thick plates used, which resemble old silver dollar coins.
This lift sits between a conventional deadlift and a rack pull. The elevated bar height reduces the range of motion, allowing lifters to handle significantly more weight than they could from the floor.
The event tests pure pulling strength, grip endurance, and lockout power. Competitors either attempt a single maximum weight lift or complete as many reps as possible with a set weight within a time limit.
You’ll find this event at major strongman competitions worldwide. It’s become a staple test of raw strength that separates good pullers from great ones.
How the Silver Dollar Deadlift Works?
The Silver Dollar Deadlift challenges athletes to lift maximum weight from a raised position. Understanding the setup and rules helps you perform better and stay safe.
The bar sits at 18 inches from the ground when loaded with silver dollar plates. Most gyms don’t have these plates, so you can use a silver dollar deadlift attachment, blocks, or a silver dollar deadlift simulator instead.
Start with your feet hip-width apart and shins close to the bar. Use a double overhand grip for lighter weights or a mixed grip for heavier loads. Brace your core hard, drive through your legs, and pull the bar straight up to full lockout.
Competitions use two scoring methods. Maximum weight attempts give you three tries to lift the heaviest load. Repetition-based variations test how many reps you can complete with a set weight in a time limit.
You cannot hitch the weight up your thighs or support the bar on your legs. Straps are usually allowed. Dropping the bar is fine once you’ve locked it out.
Records and Notable Lifts
The Silver Dollar Deadlift has seen some incredible displays of human strength. These records show what’s possible when athletes push their limits.
World Records
Anthony Pernice set the current world record at 550 kg (1,213 pounds). This anthony pernice 550 kg silver dollar deadlift stands as the highest recorded lift in this event.
The silver dollar deadlift world record kg continues to climb as athletes get stronger. Different weight classes have their own records, giving competitors of all sizes something to chase.
Rhianon Lovelace made headlines with her impressive rhianon lovelace silver dollar deadlift performance. She’s proven that this event isn’t just for heavyweight men. Her lift inspired many female athletes to try this challenging event.
Latest Competitions and Updates
The silver dollar deadlift latest 2025 competitions has shown steady progression in weights lifted. More athletes are hitting the 500 kg mark than ever before.
Recent contests have featured tighter competition in all weight classes. New federations are adding this event to their lineups. What once appeared only in specialized strongman shows now shows up in more competitions worldwide.
Training for the Silver Dollar Deadlift
Smart training makes the difference between a good lift and a great one. Here’s how to prepare your body for this demanding event.
Using a Simulator or Attachment
A silver dollar deadlift simulator lets you practice the exact bar height you’ll face in competition. If you can’t access one, stack plates or mats under your regular plates to hit that 18-inch height.
Start with lighter weights to groove the technique. Add load gradually as your form gets solid. Train this variation once or twice per week and mix in regular deadlifts, rack pulls, and block pulls.
Safety and Technique Tips
Warm up thoroughly before touching heavy weights. Do dynamic stretches for your hips, hamstrings, and lower back. Work on ankle and hip mobility between sessions for better positioning.
Use a lifting belt when the weight gets heavy. Film your lifts from the side to watch for your back rounding or the bar drifting forward.
Never ego-lift in training. Save the all-out efforts for competition day. Rest three to five minutes between heavy sets to let your nervous system recover.
Silver Dollar Deadlift vs Traditional Deadlift
These two lifts look similar but challenge your body in different ways. Knowing the differences helps you train smarter.
|
Feature |
Traditional Deadlift |
Silver Dollar Deadlift |
|
Starting Height |
9 inches off the floor |
18 inches off the floor |
|
Range of Motion |
Full range of motion |
Shortened range of motion |
|
Knee & Hip Bend |
Greater knee and hip flexion |
Reduced knee and hip flexion |
|
Primary Strength Focus |
Legs, glutes, lower back |
Upper back, traps, grip |
|
Lockout Emphasis |
Moderate |
High (lockout-dominant lift) |
|
Weight Lifted |
Lower compared to variations |
Typically, 100 150 lbs heavier |
|
Weak Point Exposed |
Off-the-floor strength |
Lockout and grip strength |
|
Carryover Benefits |
Builds total-body strength |
Improves deadlift lockout |
|
Joint Stress |
Higher knee involvement |
Less knee stress |
|
Best For |
Overall strength development |
Strongman training & accessories |
Tips for Success with the Silver Dollar Deadlift
Small adjustments in your approach can lead to big improvements in your performance and safety.
- Focus on your setup every single rep. Take your time getting into position. Rushing leads to missed lifts and injuries.
- Build your grip strength separately. Add farmer’s walks, dead hangs, and heavy holds to your training routine.
- Use chalk generously on competition day. Test different grip widths in training to find what feels strongest.
- Practice your breathing and bracing. Take a huge breath, brace your abs hard, and hold that tight core throughout the lift.
- Work on your lockout strength. Add shrugs, heavy rows, and lockout-focused variations to strengthen your finish position.
Conclusion
The Silver Dollar Deadlift pushes your strength limits in ways regular deadlifts can’t match. I’ve watched athletes surprise themselves with how much weight they can move from this elevated position.
Start with the basics we covered: proper bar height, solid technique, and smart training. Film your lifts and focus on continuous improvement rather than instant results.
Ready to test your strength? Set up some blocks at 18 inches and see what you can handle. Drop a comment below sharing your best lift or biggest challenge with this event.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Silver Dollar Deadlift different from a rack pull?
The Silver Dollar Deadlift always starts at 18 inches using thick plates. Rack pulls can start at any height you set the pins. The silver dollar version is a standardized strongman competition event.
Can beginners try the Silver Dollar Deadlift?
Beginners should master regular deadlifts first. The heavier weights in this lift need solid technique and core strength from months of training.
Do I need special equipment for this lift?
No. Stack regular plates on blocks to reach 18 inches. You can also use a simulator attachment if your gym has one.
How much more can I lift compared to my regular deadlift?
Most people lift 100 to 150 pounds more than their regular deadlift max. The shorter range lets you handle heavier weights.
How often should I train the Silver Dollar Deadlift?
Train it once or twice per week, maximum. Mix it with regular deadlifts to avoid overuse injuries and build complete strength.
