1. A High-Stakes Powerlifting Showdown
The Iron Built Games 2024 brought out the best in competitors from all over the strength community, and Storm Gilliard was no exception. Despite facing multiple challenges, including an old pectoral injury and grip issues, Storm gave it his all and walked away with first place in his weight class.
From heavy squats to a torn callus during deadlifts, this was a competition where grit and determination took center stage. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at his journey, his performance, and how our lifting belts played a pivotal role in keeping him stable and strong throughout the event.
"Smile for the camera, guys and gals!"
1.1 Overview of the Event
The Iron Built Games 2024 is a USPA-sanctioned competition, designed to challenge powerlifters in various categories including raw, classic raw, push-pull, and deadlift-only (Iron Built Games)(USPA). Held across multiple locations simultaneously, this event gives athletes from all over the country a chance to test their strength against others.
Whether competing in drug-tested or non-tested categories, participants push themselves to the limit for the chance to take home a medal. The Iron Built Games is more than a competition; it’s a testament to the dedication and grit required to be a top powerlifter.
Storm preparing for his lifts at the Iron Built Games 2024.
1.2 What It Takes to Compete
To stand on the platform at the Iron Built Games requires more than just physical strength; it demands mental toughness, strategic preparation, and the right equipment. Athletes spend months preparing for this competition, fine-tuning their techniques, recovering from injuries, and working through personal challenges. From squatting hundreds of pounds to managing grip issues during deadlifts, competitors must be at their best.
For Storm, the 2024 Iron Built Games were a test of resilience, both physically and mentally. Despite setbacks from a recovering pec injury and grip difficulties during his deadlifts, he pushed through with determination, supported by the gear that kept him stable and strong under pressure.
The Big 677 lbs squat attempt - Brace! Brace! Brace!
2. Squat: Overcoming Imbalances
Storm's squat attempts at the Iron Built Games were a display of raw strength and resilience. Starting with a successful 677 lbs lift, Storm pushed his limits but faced challenges with his heavier 688 lbs attempt, showing the highs and lows of competitive powerlifting.
These moments of triumph and struggle highlight both the mental and physical demands of competitive powerlifting. With the support of our anime lifting belt, he brought both strength and unique style to the platform, reinforcing how anime-inspired gear is becoming increasingly popular in the world of anime fitness and anime powerlifting.
2.1 Huge Success with 677 lbs
Storm Giliard started strong in the squat segment of the Iron Built Games, successfully completing a 677 lbs lift. The lift was executed with stability and earned him all white lights from the judges—an indication of perfect form and a fully legal lift. This squat set a solid tone for the rest of the competition, showcasing his strength and readiness to compete at the highest level. With our lifting belt supporting his core, Storm moved confidently through the lift, reinforcing the importance of reliable gear in heavy lifting.
All White Lights!
2.2 The 688 lbs Challenge & Obstacle
Storm aimed to push his limits with a 688 lbs squat attempt. However, as he powered through the ascent, an imbalance caused a slight dip on one side, forcing the spotters to step in and rack the bar. In the process, Storm's thumb was scraped by the metal rack, causing a minor but painful injury. Our lever belt, while heavily inspired by anime aesthetics, provided the same high-level performance expected from any top-tier powerlifting belt, demonstrating the balance between fandom and functionality.
Despite the setback and the incomplete lift, his previous success with 677 lbs still kept him in a strong position for the rest of the competition. Storm's determination was undeterred as he shifted focus to the next challenge.
What Injury? Still standing, unfazed!
3. Bench Press: Navigating Injury
Competing in powerlifting is as much about knowing your limits as it is about pushing past them. For Storm Giliard, the bench press at the Iron Built Games was a delicate balancing act. Having recently recovered from a pectoral strain, Storm faced the challenge of maintaining peak performance while protecting his healing muscle. Despite these setbacks, he finished strong with a solid 490 lbs bench press, using both strategy and the support of reliable gear to navigate this critical part of the competition.
3.1 490 lbs Finish
Despite aiming for over 500 lbs on the bench press, Storm opted for a more cautious approach due to a lingering strain in his right pectoral muscle—an injury he had been healing for weeks with peptides. He successfully lifted 490 lbs, a respectable figure, particularly given his recent injury.
By listening to his body and stopping before pushing too far, Storm avoided the risk of a more serious tear. His use of our anime-inspired lifting belt helped maintain stability during the press, allowing him to stay secure without straining his recovering muscle.
Bringing the anime belt to the Games wasn’t just an aesthetic choice; it played a crucial role in supporting his body during the intense press. With every heavy lift, especially during bench presses, the ability to keep the body stable can make all the difference between a successful lift and an injury. Thanks to this added stability, Storm was able to press 490 lbs confidently while avoiding a setback in his healing process.
Winners never quit and quitters never win!
3.2 Balancing Performance with Injury
Storm’s decision to dial back his final bench press weight was not easy, but it demonstrated the importance of long-term strategy in powerlifting. His recovery from a pectoral strain had been steady, but pushing beyond the 490 lbs mark risked re-injury. With his upcoming deadlifts and overall competition performance in mind, it was a tactical move that allowed him to stay in the game without compromising his health.
This is what they call the eye of the "Storm" - in this case, "Eyes"
4. Deadlift: Pushing Through Grip Challenges
Storm Giliard’s final event at the Iron Built Games was the deadlift—an event that tests not just raw strength but also grip endurance. After successfully completing a powerful 700 lbs opener, Storm was ready to push for heavier weights. However, his final attempts were hampered by grip issues and a torn callus. Even with these challenges, Storm maintained his focus and finished strong.
4.1 The 700 lbs Opener
The deadlift portion started with a successful 700 lbs lift, performed with control and power. Storm’s ability to lock in the lift demonstrated his core stability and proper form, supported by his 13mm lever belt. A well-constructed weight lifting belt is vital during such heavy lifts, as it helps the lifter brace their core and keep their spine aligned, reducing the risk of injury.
For lifters loving anime inspired gym gear—like our lifting belts—it offers more than just looks; it ensures stability for heavy lifts like deadlifts.
One. Two. Pull!
4.2 Struggling with Grip and Injury
As the deadlift weight climbed past 700 lbs, Storm encountered his biggest challenge: grip issues caused by a torn callus. On his final attempt, his grip gave way, causing the bar to slip slightly and ending his final lift attempt. Grip strength is often the limiting factor in deadlifts, especially in heavier lifts.
Although his body could handle the load, his grip strength couldn’t quite match the weight on the bar. This is a common challenge for lifters at the top level, especially when dealing with torn calluses, which can severely limit gripping ability.
Dig Deep And Commit!
Despite the grip struggles, Storm’s lever belt continued to provide essential support, maintaining his bracing and core stability even as his grip faltered. Whether you're lifting in competitive powerlifting or casual anime fitness, using a reliable powerlifting belt ensures you can handle intense lifts while minimizing the risk of serious injury. This balance between style and functionality makes our anime lifting belt a vital tool for any lifter.
5. Our Lifting Belt: A Key to Stability and Support
In competitive powerlifting, where even the smallest instability can result in failed lifts or injury, the right gear becomes critical. One of the most crucial tools in any lifter's arsenal is a quality lifting belt. Throughout the Iron Built Games 2024, Storm Giliard relied on his trusted anime-inspired lifting belt, which provided the stability and core support needed to push through heavy lifts like his 677 lbs squat and 700 lbs deadlift. The ability to maintain proper form and prevent injury under such intense pressure is why athletes choose belts specifically designed for competitive powerlifting.
5.1 How the Belt Supported Key Lifts
From the start of his squat session, Storm relied on his lever belt to keep his core braced and his spine aligned. As the weight increased to 677 lbs, the belt ensured that he could focus on pushing through his legs and glutes without worrying about core collapse or back strain.
This level of support was even more crucial during his deadlifts, especially when grip challenges and a torn callus added difficulty. The core stability provided by the belt allowed him to complete his 700 lbs opener with confidence, even when other factors threatened to derail the lift.
If a suit makes a man, then the belt makes the monster
5.2 Why Choose an Anime-Inspired Lifting Belt?
While traditional powerlifting belts focus purely on function, an anime-inspired lifting belt combines both performance and personal expression. For lifters who want their gear to represent more than just a tool for support, these belts allow them to carry their favorite anime characters or themes with them onto the platform.
Storm’s choice of an anime-themed belt didn’t just provide the essential stability he needed—it also added a touch of individuality to his lifting, merging his passion for anime with his dedication to powerlifting.
Storm rocking his akatsuki lifting belt, owning the spotlight!
5.3 The Science Behind the Lever Belt
The lever belt Storm used during the competition isn’t just a visual statement—it’s also a carefully engineered tool for performance. By using a quick-adjust lever mechanism, these belts allow lifters to quickly lock in and out of the belt with precise tension.
Unlike traditional belts with prongs, lever belts provide a snug, consistent fit that’s critical during heavy lifts where stability is paramount. This is why Storm and other competitive lifters prefer them: they make sure that every rep, whether in training or on the platform, is as safe and powerful as possible.
Click Here to explore our anime lifting belt collection now, with lever belts available in 10mm and 13mm!
6. Bringing Home the Gold: First Place in Full Power Open
Despite the challenges he faced, Storm Giliard’s resilience, strategy, and strength paid off as he took first place in his weight class for Full Power Open at the Iron Built Games 2024. His success was a direct result of both his careful planning—balancing injury management with powerful lifts—and the right choice of gear, including his anime-inspired lifting belt, which supported him through every major lift.
6.1 A Champion’s Performance
From his rock-solid 677 lbs squat to navigating injury on the bench press and powering through a 700 lbs deadlift opener, Storm demonstrated the focus and tenacity required to compete at the highest levels of powerlifting. Achieving first place in his division wasn’t just about hitting heavy numbers—it was about making smart decisions throughout the event.
The use of our lever belt provided crucial stability during each of these lifts, ensuring his core remained solid while lifting heavy under intense pressure. It’s this combination of mental toughness and reliable equipment that helped him bring home the gold.
Tap Here to check out the exact lifting belt he rocked for the event!
6.2 Winning with Strategy and Gear
Storm’s victory in the Full Power Open category showcases the importance of balancing short-term ambition with long-term strategy. Knowing when to push limits and when to protect against injury is a hallmark of experienced athletes like him.
But having the right gear—like his anime powerlifting belt—played a key role in his ability to perform under pressure, especially when the stakes were high. Combining functionality with his personal love for anime, this belt was more than just a piece of equipment; it was a statement that athletes can bring their personal style into competition without sacrificing performance.
6.3 Looking to the Future
Storm’s win in the Full Power Open was a defining moment in his lifting journey, but it’s clear that he’s far from finished. With upcoming competitions and goals to surpass his current personal records, Storm will continue refining his techniques and relying on top-tier gear to support his progress. His success at the Iron Built Games is just the beginning, and it proves that with the right mindset and equipment—like the lever belt he used—athletes can continue breaking barriers.
7. Final Reflections: Grit, Gear, and the Future
Storm Giliard’s journey through the Iron Built Games 2024 was a powerful example of what it takes to compete at the highest level in powerlifting. From his calculated squat successes to his strategic bench press decisions, and finally his determined deadlift attempts, Storm showcased resilience and intelligence, proving that competing isn’t just about brute strength but about preparation, smart decisions, and having the right tools for the job.
For anyone following Storm’s example, there are key takeaways to apply to your own training and competition. Whether you’re a seasoned powerlifter or just starting out, focusing on long-term health, using the right equipment—like an anime-inspired lifting belt—and knowing when to push and when to pull back are lessons that can keep you strong and competitive for years to come.
Key Takeaways:
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Gear Matters: Storm’s success wasn’t just built on raw strength—it was supported by reliable, performance-driven equipment like his anime-inspired lifting belt.
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Smart Strategy Wins: Knowing when to push and when to hold back, as seen in Storm’s bench press decisions, is key for longevity in powerlifting.
- Stay Resilient: Whether it’s overcoming grip challenges in deadlifts or managing recovery from injury, resilience is crucial to long-term success.
7.1 The Power of Preparation and Gear
Storm’s competition success didn’t just come from his strength. His preparation, strategy, and use of reliable gear like the lever belt played a critical role in his performance. A strong core and the ability to brace properly are key in heavy lifting, and the anime lifting belt Storm used provided the perfect balance of support and style.
This blend of performance and personal expression in the lifting community is becoming more popular, especially among lifters who want their gear to reflect their passion for anime and fitness.
7.2 Looking Ahead: Building on Success
While Storm took home first place in his weight class, his journey doesn’t end here. Like any serious lifter, he knows there are always new challenges to face and personal records to break. As he continues to recover from his pectoral strain and strengthen his grip for future deadlift attempts, he’ll keep refining his approach to powerlifting.
Just as Storm prepares for his next competition, every lifter can take a page out of his book: using the right tools, pacing yourself for longevity, and staying dedicated to improvement are the keys to success in this sport.
All smiles after a hard fight
7.3 Your Powerlifting Journey Starts Here
Whether you’re looking to hit your first 500 lbs squat, secure a new bench press PR, or make sure your gear supports your lifts like Storm’s did, Akinci Strength has the tools you need. From anime-inspired lifting belts to high-performance gear for serious lifters, we’re here to help you achieve your goals. Don’t just lift—lift with style, power, and confidence.
7.4 Ready to Lift Like a Champion?
If you’re serious about powerlifting, don’t settle for anything less than the best. Storm Giliard trusted our anime-inspired lifting belts for stability and performance during his winning lifts at the Iron Built Games, and now it’s your turn. Elevate your lifting game with gear that blends power, style, and the support you need to hit your next personal record.
Explore our collection of anime-themed powerlifting belts and start lifting with confidence, style, and the strength to push your limits.
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