The Yoke walk is the ultimate test of limit strength, strength endurance, core stability and explosive power. To add icing on the cake, the yoke will simultaneously work virtually every muscle in the body.
In the last 15 years, the yoke walk has become popular in strongman contests ranging from the iconoclastic World’s Strongest Man to the state fair strongman contest in the parking lot of Motel 6, 15 miles due west of Evansville, Indiana.
Yoke Explained
The yoke implement also referred to as a “super yoke” is a frame with two upright posts connected by a thick bar that sits across your shoulders. Weight generally can be added to posts to increase the weight of the implement.
In a strongman contest you will move the yoke for a specified distance as fast possible. Assuming contestants are able to complete the event, the fastest time wins; if they are unable to complete it, distance is measured and whoever traveled the furthest would win.
The yoke walk can be a standalone event or part of a medley. Most contests require a contestant to go 25-100 feet, some more, some less.
The Yoke is heavy—most competitors could not come close to squatting the weight used in a yoke carry. Strongman contests can have yokes that range from 400 pounds to well over 1,000 pounds for a seasoned professional.
Training Guidelines
For strength do runs with maximum weight for as little as 10 feet, take a full recovery between sets
For hypertrophy use more moderate loads for 50-100 feet., and rest 90-180 seconds between sets.
Do 3-5 sets on your back or leg day.
Final Thoughts
A tough yoke walk can take more than 30 seconds, with a weight that is above your true squat max. If you squat 400 lbs. and you do a yoke walk with 500 lbs., your body must dynamically stabilize 100 lbs. over your squat max while you walk 100+ feet.
In essence, you are overloading your system with more weight than you normally handle and greatly increasing the time you are under tension.
You will grow, plain and simple. Remember, big compound movements that use the largest amount of muscle cause the greatest muscle gains and fat loss; the yoke epitomizes this type of movement. Furthermore, heavy yoke training will make heavy squats lighter, increase core strength and stability and add an exciting, new element to your training routine. Time to get yolked with the yoke!
