Is it true that fat helps you lift more weight?
Last Update On December 10, 2011
Yes, being heavier allows you to lift heavier weights. Why do you think there are different weight classes - bigger people lift more weight. This is true even if the weight is fat. That's why it's not uncommon to see a a lot fat boys out-lift you despite the fact that they look like they should be hitting the treadmills instead.
When it comes to lifting weights it's all about leverage or how well your body is suited to perform a certain task. For example people with short arms are known to bench a lot of weight while people with long arms deadlift a lot of weight. The same stays true for fat - when your legs are big even if some of the weight is fat you have an advantage at the bottom of the squat because you will rebound - sort of like powerlifting wraps and suit. Also having a big gut accomplish similar thing - at the bottom of a squat your stomach fat clashes against your thighs.
However technically speaking the fat does not increase your strength. Fat does not contract and aside from some cushioning it does do much for you. Not to mention that if we are talking about pull-ups or other exercises where you lift your own bodyweight the fatty tissue actually accomplish the exact opposite - it makes the movement harder. Also being fat does not help you with the deadlift at all. Having a big gut means that your lower back should lift even more weight. Not to mention the fact that there is no rebound during a 1RM deadlift.
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