“The Gym Saved My Life”: Lifting Weights Helped Strongman Escape His Darkest Time in 2022

Tom Stoltman is one of the big names in the strongman world, but the star never had it easy. At eight years old, Stoltman was diagnosed with autism and faced many difficulties growing up, leading to depression. However, fortunately, Stoltman found his muse in the gym, which soon became a major part of his life.

Once, the World’s Strongest Man champion opened up about his life struggles and his road to success. Here is how Stoltman fought his bullies and negative thoughts to become a famous athlete.

Gym saved strongman Tom Stoltman from suicidal thoughts

Besides their everyday struggle with speech, communication, and more, a person on the spectrum faces various challenges in our society as well. It was no different for Tom Stoltman, who was continuously bullied by his classmates and others. In an interview with People magazine, the strongman confessed, “I would cry, break down. I would have my hood on. I wouldn’t talk to anybody else outside my family.”

The Scottish athlete loved playing football but unfortunately could not build a career in the sport, due to his disorder. This left Stoltman extremely depressed and suicidal. Luckily, his elder brother Luke [also a strongman athlete] introduced Stoltman to the gym and workout. “The gym saved my life,” claimed the 2x Strongest man champion.

Soon, like his older brother, Stoltman too dedicated himself to building a career in the unique sport that allowed him to participate despite his mental condition. He recalled, “I didn’t want to blow the opportunity I had with Strongman like, I did with football. I just quit football because things were getting hard and I didn’t enjoy it. I enjoyed Strongman, and I enjoyed lifting weights.” The gym, not only helped Stoltman fight depression but also helped him find a new career path.

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At present, Stoltman is one of the most well-known athletes in the world. In fact, the “Albatross” now intends to break the world record for the heaviest deadlift.

Stoltman is keen on claiming this prestigious title

Recently, the strongman released a series on YouTube titled – “Road to 505KG.” The champion is preparing himself for one of the biggest challenges in his career.

Stolotman is keen on breaking the current deadlift world record of 501 kg, held by his strongman competitor Hafthor Bjornsson. However, instead of just aiming to lift just 1 kg more than Bjornsson, Stoltman is preparing to lift 505 kg.

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Although it seems like an unreal task, the “Albatross” believes in himself to achieve the impossible. Do you think Tom Stoltman will break the world record? Let us know in the comments below.