From weights to wins and wisdom
For Kelin Mills, Strongman is not just a sport, it's a calling. To get into the world of Strongman, Kelin was inspired by the great athletes like Bill Kazmaier, Brian Shaw and Big Z.
Watching them lift massive weights and tackle insane challenges made Kelin realise he wanted to test his own limits and see how far he could push himself. Even though Kelin began his strength training journey by dipping his toes into bodybuilding first, he soon discovered that posing on stage wasn't his style.
'I've always had an interest in being stronger; I met Tristen Obrien started training. Later we met one of our mentors, Ettiene Smit, a legend in the sport and a SA Strongman and World Strongest Man competitor,' he shares.
With titles like South Africa's Strongest Man (2018 and 2019) and Africa's Strongest Man (2022) under his belt, Kelin's journey into the world of Strongman competition is as strong as his weightlifting abilities.
Also read: Gauteng's strongest men lift for a good cause
'I train four to five times a week. I usually split it into two days of event-specific Strongman training, like Atlas Stones, log presses, yoke carries,' he explains.
The remaining two to three days, he focuses on foundational lifts like squats, deadlifts, overhead pressing, plus accessory work for weak points and conditioning.
In his journey, Kelin has dealt with a few setbacks as he has had his fair share of injuries.
'I've dealt with some back and shoulder strains as well as pec tears over the years. Recovery involved a lot of physical therapy, mobility work and dialling back on intensity to rebuild strength safely.
'Learning to listen to my body and train smarter has been key. I've also torn the ligaments in my left knee and had to have surgery on the meniscus, MCL and ACL,' Kelin expresses.
To balance his intense routine with everyday life, Kelin works around his schedule, makes time to recover from his injuries, and his family and friends understand and always back him up. His message to those who want to come into the Strongman World is to start small, be patient, and enjoy the process.
'Build a solid base before jumping into the crazy stuff. And remember, it's supposed to be fun.'
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