#207 – Chris Duffin: The Mad Scientist of Strength

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Aug 3, 2021

Chris Duffin, known as the Mad Scientist of Strength, is a world-record-holding strength athlete and engineer who founded Kabuki Strength. In this engaging discussion, he shares insights on achieving extraordinary lifts, the mental preparation required, and the emotional complexities of personal milestones. Duffin also emphasizes the importance of meditation and nutrition in performance, and challenges common beliefs about footwear's impact on body mechanics. His journey through struggle and transformation highlights resilience, personal growth, and redefining success in the fitness world.

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ANECDOTE

Grand Goals

Chris Duffin is most proud of his five-year journey to achieve the grand goals of squatting and deadlifting 1000 lbs for reps.
He wanted to showcase human potential, demonstrate his training principles, and support charities.

INSIGHT

Lift Day vs. Training

The day of the lift is easy; the years of training leading up to it are hard.
Duffin experienced doubts but knew he was capable, aiming to showcase the principles of human movement and spinal mechanics.

INSIGHT

Mechanics of Heavy Lifting

Lifting 1000 lbs requires precise positioning and minimizing errors.
Duffin emphasizes controlling spinal mechanics, torso stability, and foot-ground connection for optimal power transfer.

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Chris Duffin is a strength athlete, coach, and engineer, setting multiple strength world records including squatting and deadlifting 1000 lbs for multiple reps. Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors:
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EPISODE LINKS:
Chris’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mad_scientist_duffin
The Eagle and the Dragon (book): https://amzn.to/3Ckpfoj
Chris’s Website: https://christopherduffin.com
Kabuki Strength: https://kabukistrength.com

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OUTLINE:
Here’s the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players you should be able to click the timestamp to jump to that time.
(00:00) – Introduction
(07:10) – Performing feats of strength
(13:52) – What does it take to lift 1000 lbs for reps?
(16:43) – From 500 to 1000lb
(17:15) – The mechanics of heavy lifting
(28:32) – What did it feel like to do 1000lbs for reps?
(30:26) – Achieving peak performance
(35:16) – Importance of singular focus
(37:48) – Chris’s childhood
(50:37) – The Eagle and the Dragon: A Story of Strength and Reinvention
(58:21) – Lex on business
(1:04:52) – The Disciplines of Strength
(1:09:33) – Powerlifting
(1:22:37) – Role of strength in MMA, BJJ… and baseball
(1:32:38) – What is Kabuki Strength?
(1:38:55) – Equipment
(1:50:09) – The importance of strong feet
(1:59:15) – Chris’s diet
(2:05:37) – Lex on moderation in food
(2:06:11) – Steroids and PED’s
(2:24:14) – Whiskey and deadlifts
(2:33:03) – Is it better to work hard or smart?
(2:41:52) – Advice for young people
(2:45:02) – Fear of death