The World’s Strongman Competition consistently leaves bodybuilding and fitness enthusiasts in awe. Witnessing these giant individuals perform tasks requiring superhuman strength makes us question if they are even human. Laurence Shahlaei, an 11x time World’s Strongest Man competitor, is another such superhuman who astonished the world with his incredible journey from overcoming depression to achieving dominance.

Despite suffering a career-ending injury that led to depression and weight gain, Europe’s Strongest Man 2016 winner managed to bounce back by becoming a prosperous YouTuber and mentor in the field of Strongman. Consequently, he has recently guided 27-year-old Mitchell Hooper to triumph in the 2023 World’s Strongest Man competition. In an interview with BBC, the ex-British Power Lifting Champion narrated his remarkable journey.

A New Kind of Strength: How Laurence Shahlaei is Empowering Athletes Through Coaching

Determined to take control of his life, the English Strongman enlisted the help of a nutritionist and began eating healthily. Moreover, he returned to the gym, focusing on fitness and coaching other strongmen and strongwomen. Since hitting rock bottom in 2020, he has strived to become one of the most successful trainers in the sport. “Last week, a guy I train called Mitch Hooper became the World’s Strongest Man, which is a nice addition to the resumé,” he said. “I trained a World’s Strongest Disabled Man winner, the second place Strongest Woman, and countless champions in other countries. Mitch winning Strongest Man is just the icing on the cake.”

In addition to his coaching achievements, the former powerlifter actively enhances his YouTube channel, Big Loz Official. This channel has become a top content source for Strongman enthusiasts, with over 130,000 subscribers. Moreover, he collaborates with his wife, Liz, who co-hosts the channel. Together, they have built a reputation in the sport by offering event commentary and engaging in discussions about various Strongman topics.

The sports YouTuber revealed that their channel attracts approximately one to two million views per month. This keeps him both busy and out of trouble.

Read More: Despite Winning WSM Title, Mitchell Hooper Carries On With His Win-or-Lose Strategy as He Stuns Everyone With Mind-Numbing Lifts

The Road to Recovery

Reflecting on his journey, the Strongman coach feels a sense of pride for his accomplishments. “It was pretty bad – and I’ve looked back at pictures and I don’t remember looking like that. I might be smiling, but inside I was severely depressed with both my mental and physical health,” he admitted. “I had to understand (Strongman) was just one part of my life, and it was time to move on – focusing on fitness, being around for my children.”

Shahlaei’s inspiring story continually reminds us that even in the face of seemingly hopeless situations, a life transformation is achievable through determination and optimism. He put forth tremendous effort, demonstrated unwavering dedication, and cultivated a positive mindset. Consequently, former England’s Strongest Man overcame personal obstacles and emerged as a triumphant Strongman coach, YouTuber, and sports advocate.

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