13-Year-Old Shatters Powerlifting Records
Nash Earwood, nicknamed "Big Nash," broke state records in bench press, deadlift, squat, and total weight at the Georgia Powerlifting State Championships. The 13-year-old's performance signals a new generation pushing youth strength sport boundaries.
This isn't the first time "Big Nash" has rewritten the record books. In September 2025, at age 12, he set three state records at a USA Powerlifting event in Ringgold, Georgia. His lifts that day included a 385-pound squat and a 396-pound deadlift, contributing to a total of 1,012 pounds. Earwood's journey in strength sports began unexpectedly. His father noted his impressive strength at just four years old when he was seen carrying a cinder block across their driveway. He later began training with coach Terrence Flowers at 4.0 Fitness, initially for football conditioning, before his record-breaking potential in powerlifting was identified. At 12 years old, Earwood stood 5'8" and weighed 268 pounds, already possessing a formidable stature for his age. His early start and rapid progression highlight a growing trend of young athletes pushing the boundaries in strength sports. Powerlifting federations like USA Powerlifting have specific divisions for young athletes, with the 12-13 year old category being one of the competitive age groups. These youth divisions have strict rules, often only allowing "raw" or "unequipped" lifting to focus on proper technique and safety.
