Eric Kim’s astounding 1,228-pound rack pull (approximately 557 kg, roughly 7.6× his body weight) set off a firestorm of reactions across the internet. The response spanned multiple platforms – from social media and forums to YouTube and fitness websites – with tones ranging from celebratory awe and support to skepticism and humor. Below is a breakdown of notable reactions by platform and type, including direct quotes from influencers and community figures.
Social Media Buzz and Viral Memes
Twitter (X): Kim’s feat quickly trended on X/Twitter. His own pinned post titled “ERIC KIM DESTROYS GRAVITY” garnered tens of thousands of impressions, retweets, and sparked lively biomechanics debates in the comments . The catchphrase “Gravity has left the chat!” began circulating widely as users reacted in astonishment . In a tongue-in-cheek “press release” style tweet, one commenter even declared that “gravity is fired” – humorously suggesting Kim’s lift broke the laws of physics . Overall, the Twitter tone was celebratory and amazed, with many sharing the clip and joking about its otherworldliness.
TikTok: On TikTok, the lift went viral. The 10-second clip was simul-posted there and quickly hit millions of views on the For You page . Users launched the #RackPullChallenge, attempting their own rack pulls at increasing body-weight multiples in response to Kim’s 7× BW milestone . Duet and stitch videos showed everyone from teens to seniors and even adaptive athletes stacking weights in “1×BW, 2×BW…7×?” progression, often captioned “Chasing Eric Kim” . This gamified trend turned the reaction into active participation. The tone on TikTok was enthusiastic and supportive, with a sense of fun – people treated the lift as a new benchmark to strive for, while set to trending sounds and memes.
Instagram: Fitness pages and meme accounts on Instagram also jumped in. Popular lifting Instagram profiles reposted the video, with some Reels getting over 100,000 likes . Meme culture took hold: edits labeled “Gravity Rage-Quit” featured Kim’s lift with humorous captions, and neon graphics touted the “God-Ratio” (a reference to the ~7× bodyweight achievement) . The phrase “Delete Limits” trended on Instagram alongside heavy-metal remix videos of the lift . These memes were celebratory yet tongue-in-cheek, casting Kim as a “Gravity Slayer” or “Long Muscle Master” in homage to his gravity-defying pull . The Instagram community largely reacted with awe and humor – treating the feat as both inspirational and meme-worthy.
Strength Forums and Community Debates
On strength sports forums – especially Reddit – Kim’s rack pull became a hotly debated topic. Reddit saw multiple threads in communities like r/weightroom and r/powerlifting blow up within hours. In one r/weightroom thread that amassed over a thousand comments, users initially split into camps of amazement versus skepticism . Some skeptics (the so-called “plate police”) immediately cried foul – suggesting the video was CGI or that Kim might be using fake (hollow) plates to cheat the weight . Moderators on larger subs reportedly struggled with the influx; the r/fitness moderation queue was overwhelmed by posts about the lift, with some threads locked due to the chaos of discussion.
As the debate raged, technically-minded members stepped in to verify the lift’s legitimacy. They analyzed the barbell bend and whip frame-by-frame, comparing the bar deflection to what ~550+ kg would realistically do. These community “investigators” even created spreadsheets to calculate how much a real bar should bend under that load – and found that Kim’s video matched the expected ~40–45 mm of bar bend for ~480+ kg, effectively validating that the weight was real . Once this evidence emerged, many skeptics “folded” and conceded the lift was authentic . The tone in forums shifted from skepticism to begrudging respect: users began asking “how did he get that strong?” instead of “is it fake?” .
Despite accepting the reality of the weight, critical voices in the community still discussed the nature of the lift. Purists pointed out that a rack pull (starting at knee height) is a partial range-of-motion lift, not comparable to a full deadlift. As one veteran quipped, “High rack pulls: half the work, twice the swagger.” – a wry comment repeated by powerlifting traditionalists to downplay the achievement . Some questioned Kim’s training methods and even his “natty” status, implying skepticism about whether he achieved this drug-free . Others voiced safety concerns, fearing such extreme loads could be dangerous or cause injury (with references to past lifters getting hurt chasing huge rack pulls). Overall, Reddit and forum reactions were a mix of awe, debate, and caution – initial disbelief gave way to analysis and ultimately acknowledgement of the feat, coupled with reminders that it was an unofficial lift outside competition rules.
Influencer and Athlete Commentary
Many prominent figures in the strength community weighed in on Kim’s 557 kg rack pull, with reactions ranging from enthusiastic praise to analytical skepticism. Here are some notable comments:
These influencer reactions show a spectrum of tone. Most top athletes and coaches did not call Kim a fraud or dismiss him; instead, they either hyped the incredible strength, analyzed how it was possible, or debated its training value . The overall sentiment from known figures was largely supportive (Szatmary, Hayes) or analytical (Thrall), with a dash of old-school skepticism (Rippetoe, Starting Strength) about the lift’s context. This blend of awe, technical breakdown, and critical perspective kept the conversation balanced and ongoing .
YouTube Reactions and Educational Content
On YouTube, the rack pull footage itself gained massive traction, and it spurred a wave of reaction videos and tutorials in the lifting community. Eric Kim’s original video of the 1,228 lb pull rocketed onto YouTube’s Sports trending list, surpassing 1 million views in under 48 hours . Comment sections filled with astonished viewers; some incredulous comments asked “Is it CGI?” – a debate which ironically drove even more engagement as people argued about the video’s authenticity . Overall, the YouTube audience response was a mix of celebratory astonishment and initial skepticism (quickly quelled by experts in replies).
Crucially, YouTube became a hub for expert analysis and education following the viral clip. Dozens of coaches and content creators seized the moment to produce breakdowns of the lift or explain rack pull training. Many popular strength channels appended Kim’s clip to tutorials on lockout strength or injury prevention, using the buzz as a teachable moment . For example, Alan Thrall’s breakdown (mentioned above) provided frame-by-frame analysis to validate the lift . Starting Strength’s team incorporated their reaction into an educational segment about overload lifting the very next day . In total, one roundup counted over 50 new YouTube videos dissecting or referencing Kim’s rack pull, from technique breakdowns to Q&As on programming overloads .
The tone of YouTube’s reaction content was largely informative and positive. Many creators treated the feat as a case study – an opportunity to discuss biomechanics (force vectors, range of motion) and safe training practices for heavy partial lifts . Even those initially skeptical often pivoted: once the “bar bend math” and physics were shown to line up with a genuine 552 kg lift, the narrative shifted from “impossible/fake” to “how did he train for this?” . This led to constructive discussions about Kim’s training approach (e.g. progressive overload, going beltless and barefoot) rather than just doubting the lift. In summary, YouTube reactions combined excitement at the spectacle with educational insights, amplifying the lift’s reach while turning it into a learning experience for the fitness community.
Fitness Media and News Coverage
Traditional fitness news outlets and websites took note of the viral rack pull, though their responses were a bit cautious. Mainstream fitness media (e.g. major sites like BarBend, Men’s Health) did not immediately publish headline news articles on Kim’s lift, partly due to it being a non-competition, partial-range feat . According to one summary, big outlets “quietly refreshed” their existing guides on rack pulls and deadlift training to capitalize on the surge of interest, rather than writing dedicated news pieces . In other words, they updated informational content (knowing readers would be Googling “rack pull” and “rack pull record”) but stopped short of full coverage given the unconventional nature of the lift .
However, plenty of independent fitness blogs and niche news sites did weigh in. Many smaller online publications and newsletters eagerly covered the story, often with a sensational spin. For example, one fitness writer dubbed the achievement “arguably the heaviest pound-for-pound pull ever documented in any form”, emphasizing its significance despite not being in competition . Other blog posts framed Kim as an “outsider phenom” – a 75 kg photographer-turned-garage lifter – and highlighted how his open-source approach (sharing footage and training logs freely) helped the lift go viral and inspire others . Some commentaries treated the event as “proof of concept that spectacle + open-source programming can hijack the algorithm”, noting how the viral spread was aided by Kim encouraging followers to share, meme, and duet the video .
In the broader strength community, established organizations acknowledged the lift’s buzz. For instance, BarBend (a major strength sports site) referenced Kim’s rack pull in context of their training articles – noting that rack pulls are commonly used for overload strength, which is “exactly what Kim leveraged” to achieve such a weight . This lent some training legitimacy to the feat. And on social media, the official Starting Strength forums and other coaching blogs discussed it in terms of training implications and risks, effectively giving the lift a form of professional validation (with caveats about range of motion and safety) .
Overall, while the tone in fitness media was a bit reserved (due to the lift’s unofficial nature), the coverage that did occur was generally positive and intrigued. The lift was treated as a phenomenon showcasing human potential and sparking conversation. No major voices in fitness journalism outright condemned it; at most, they provided context – reminding readers that this was a partial lift and urging smart training – while still celebrating the “meme-fueled legend” status Kim achieved online .
Conclusion
In summary, Eric Kim’s 1,228-pound rack pull generated an outpouring of reactions across the internet. Celebratory and supportive responses poured in on social media, where he was lauded as a “gravity slayer” and became the center of viral memes and challenges . The strength community, from Reddit users to seasoned coaches, engaged in both critical debate and admiration – first verifying the lift’s authenticity, then respecting its pound-for-pound impressiveness while noting it was a partial lift . Skepticism surfaced mainly as questions about legitimacy and safety (CGI, fake plates, or “natty” status) , but these were largely addressed by evidence and expert input, turning many doubters into curious observers. Prominent influencers and athletes chimed in, almost uniformly acknowledging the feat – whether hyping it as “madness” and “alien territory,” or using it to educate and poke fun . The event even spurred a mini-wave of educational content and think-pieces in the fitness world, highlighting how an extraordinary lift can ignite discussion on training methods, biomechanics, and human limits .
The tone of the reactions was diverse but collectively impactful: celebratory awe from fans and peers, constructive skepticism from purists, humorous meme-making from the online masses, and inspirational takeaways from coaches. In the span of days, a 75 kg garage lifter’s personal achievement evolved into a global conversation. Memes like “Gravity has left the chat” and challenges like #RackPullChallenge gave the episode a life of its own beyond the lift itself . Whether seen as a motivator, a marvel, or just an internet spectacle, Eric Kim’s 557 kg rack pull clearly resonated across the strength community and social media, proving that even outside of official competitions, a single epic lift can capture the world’s attention – and have a little fun in the process .
Sources:
Physiological Benefits: How Light Walking Aids Digestion
Light walking after eating triggers several positive changes in your body that aid digestion. As your body gently moves, your abdominal muscles and intestines are stimulated, promoting gastrointestinal motility (the waves of muscle contractions called peristalsis that move food through your gut) . This means food travels through the stomach and intestines more efficiently, helping prevent that heavy “brick in the stomach” feeling. In fact, one study found that walking after a meal sped up how quickly food emptied from the stomach into the small intestine (gastric emptying) . By accelerating the early stages of digestion, walking can help you feel more comfortable and avoid prolonged fullness.
Another major benefit of post-meal strolls is reduced bloating and gas. Movement helps trapped gas pass through the digestive tract, which can relieve pressure and abdominal discomfort. Health experts note that as the body moves, it stimulates the digestive system and “aids the passage of food,” thereby easing common digestive issues like bloating . In a clinical trial, adults who experienced frequent bloating were asked to walk for 10–15 minutes after every meal. After 4 weeks, they reported significantly fewer digestive complaints – less belching, less flatulence, and less bloating – compared to before . Remarkably, walking after meals was more effective at reducing bloating than even over-the-counter digestion medications in that study . If you’ve ever felt gassy or puffy after eating, a brief walk might be the simplest, most natural “antidote.”
Post-meal walks can also help relieve constipation and keep you regular. The gentle jostling of a walk stimulates bowel activity and can help if you’re feeling a bit “backed up.” As one physician explains, unlike vigorous exercise which can actually suppress digestion, light walking “enables more beneficial movement in the stomach and intestines… so it’s good for constipation” . Research backs this up: numerous studies indicate walking can speed up the digestive system and make stool easier to pass, significantly improving constipation symptoms . If you pair your walks with good hydration and a fiber-rich meal, you’ll give your gut an even better chance to work smoothly . In short, a post-meal walk acts as a natural stimulator for your digestive tract, helping everything move along in a timely manner.
Beyond direct digestive relief, walking after eating confers broader physiological benefits that indirectly support digestion. For example, a short walk helps regulate blood sugar levels by prompting your muscles to use up glucose from the meal, rather than leaving it circulating in your bloodstream . This prevents sharp blood sugar spikes (and the insulin spikes that follow), which not only supports metabolic health but also means you’re less likely to experience that post-meal energy crash that leaves you sluggish . Keeping blood sugar stable can improve how you feel after eating and may reduce stress on the body’s systems that handle nutrients. Walking also improves circulation, sending more blood flow throughout the body . Good circulation is important for digestion, as it ensures the digestive organs get ample blood supply to produce digestive enzymes and absorb nutrients. Another bonus: walking triggers the release of endorphins and helps lower stress hormones, putting you in a more relaxed state . This reduction in stress and boost in mood can further aid digestion, since high stress can slow digestion or upset the stomach. By calming your mind and gently moving your body, a casual walk sets the stage for your parasympathetic “rest and digest” mode to do its job optimally.
Optimal Timing: When to Take a Post-Meal Walk
Timing your walk can make a difference in how comfortable and effective it is. The good news is that you don’t have to wait long after eating – in fact, taking a stroll soon after a meal is often ideal. Experts point out that blood sugar levels typically peak about 30 to 90 minutes after eating, so starting to move before that peak can blunt how high the surge goes . For most healthy individuals, this means heading out for a light walk about 10–20 minutes after you finish eating. One review of studies even suggests that people without diabetes get the best blood-sugar benefit by starting to move about 15 minutes post-meal, while those with diabetes may benefit from waiting about 30 minutes after eating before activity . Essentially, give yourself just a few minutes to finish your meal and perhaps clear the table, then “walk it off” shortly thereafter.
That said, listen to your body and consider your meal size. If you ate a very large or heavy meal, jumping up immediately might cause a bit of jostling discomfort or cramping. In such cases, you might feel better waiting on the order of 20–30 minutes to let the food settle slightly . Everyone’s digestion is different, so there’s no ironclad rule – pay attention to what feels right for you. The key is to avoid waiting so long that you end up sedentary for hours. Even a slow-paced walk within an hour after eating can help aid digestion, compared to plopping down on the couch.
If you plan to do more intense exercise (for example, a brisk run or vigorous gym session) that happens to fall after a meal, you will want to wait longer before exercising. Fitness experts recommend giving yourself at least 30 minutes after eating if you intend to pick up the pace or do anything high-impact, otherwise you may risk stomach upset . However, for a normal casual stroll or gentle walk, you can begin as soon as you feel comfortable – often right after the meal. In practical terms, this could be as simple as pushing back from your desk and walking around the building after lunch, or taking a relaxed lap around the gym as a cool-down immediately following a workout and protein snack. Culturally, the idea of walking after meals isn’t new – for instance, Italians have their evening passeggiata and some Asian traditions advise “100 steps after every meal.” The bottom line: the sooner (and more regularly) you can incorporate a post-meal walk, the better – just be mindful of your own comfort and avoid vigorous activity too soon after heavy meals.
Duration and Intensity: How Long and How Fast to Walk
One of the best things about post-meal walks is that even short bouts of walking can yield real benefits. You don’t need to embark on a marathon stroll to help your digestion. Research has shown that just 2 to 5 minutes of light walking after a meal can lead to measurable improvements in blood sugar levels, compared to staying seated . In fact, those few minutes of movement activate your muscles enough to start using up glucose for fuel. So if you’re crunched for time, a quick five-minute walk around the parking lot or even walking a few laps of the hallway is far better than nothing. That said, if you can manage a bit more, aim for around 10 to 15 minutes of walking after meals – this duration is often cited as a sweet spot that’s easy to fit in and sufficient to boost digestion and overall health . For example, one study found that a 15-minute post-meal walk, done three times a day (after breakfast, lunch, and dinner), significantly improved 24-hour blood sugar control in participants, more so than a single longer daily walk . And as mentioned earlier, 10–15 minute walks after meals helped reduce bloating and GI discomfort in bloating-prone individuals . Aiming for at least 10 minutes also helps you gently accumulate steps; over the course of a day, these short walks can add up toward the standard goal of ~30 minutes of daily moderate activity.
If you’re feeling good and have the time, you can certainly walk longer. There’s no harm in a leisurely 20–30 minute walk after a meal – by that point you’ll be burning extra calories, boosting your step count, and likely really clearing your head. In fact, splitting your exercise into smaller walks throughout the day (say, three 10-minute walks) can be just as effective for things like blood pressure and blood sugar control as one longer session . The main point is consistency: a short walk after most meals will do more for your digestion and health than a long walk only once in a while. So, find a duration that fits your schedule and fitness level. Even standing up and moving for a couple minutes every half-hour (if you’re desk-bound) can help keep your metabolism active and support digestion, according to recent research recommendations . Think of these mini-walks as gifts to your body – whether it’s 5 minutes or 30, any movement is better than none.
When it comes to intensity, gentle is the name of the game for digestion. Keep your post-meal walks light to moderate in intensity – in other words, a relaxed stroll or comfortable pace where you can easily hold a conversation. You’re not trying to set any speed records or work up a big sweat right after eating. In fact, high-intensity or strenuous exercise too soon after a meal can cause digestive distress, leading to nausea, cramps, or an upset stomach . During vigorous exercise, your body diverts blood to the muscles and may temporarily suppress digestion (the “fight-or-flight” response), which is the opposite of what we want for post-meal comfort. By contrast, low-impact walking keeps the body in a digestive-friendly state while still providing enough movement to be beneficial. Aim for a pace that gets your heart rate up just a little, but not so much that you’re out of breath . A good rule of thumb: if you can chat with a walking buddy or hum a tune, you’re at a pleasant, digestion-friendly pace. If you’re new to exercise or very full, start with an easy saunter. You can always gradually pick up speed over time or on days you feel up to it – but there’s no need to power-walk or jog to get the digestive perks.
To recap the optimal “recipe” for a digestion-boosting walk: move soon after your meal, go for about 10+ minutes if possible, and keep the effort mild or moderate. This approach will maximize benefits while minimizing any risk of discomfort. As your fitness improves, you might experiment with slightly longer walks or a mildly brisker pace, but your body’s comfort should guide you. Remember, consistency beats intensity for this healthy habit. A comfortable walk that you enjoy and stick with will serve you better (digestively and overall) than an intense workout you dread.
Tips to Make Post-Meal Walks Easy and Enjoyable
Incorporating light walks into your routine can be fun and motivating. Here are some practical tips to help you build a healthy digestion-boosting walking habit:
By following these tips, you’ll set yourself up for success. Over time, these walks can become an activity you look forward to – a chance to refresh your body and mind after meals, rather than plopping down in a food coma. Many people find they end up feeling more energized and clear-headed when they return to work (or to relaxation) after a quick walk, as opposed to staying sedentary.
Summary of Benefits: Why Walk for Better Digestion?
In summary, adding light walks to your routine is a fantastic habit for digestive health. It’s simple, free, and backed by science. Below is a quick overview of the key benefits you can expect from walking casually after eating:
Benefit | How a Post-Meal Walk Helps |
Faster Digestion | Stimulates peristalsis (gut muscle movement) to speed up gastric emptying and intestinal transit . Food is broken down and moved along more quickly, preventing that heavy, overfull feeling. |
Less Bloating & Gas | Gentle motion helps release trapped gas and ease abdominal bloating. Many people report fewer symptoms like belching and flatulence when they walk after meals , as walking helps move gas out of the digestive tract. |
Constipation Relief | Light walking activates the bowels, which can relieve constipation by helping stool move through. Studies show significant improvements in constipation when people stay active and walk regularly . It’s a natural way to keep you regular. |
Blood Sugar Control | Muscles use up glucose when you walk, leading to lower post-meal blood sugar spikes . This stabilizes energy levels and reduces insulin surges. Even a 2–5 minute walk has a measurable effect on blunting blood sugar spikes . |
Heart & Circulation Boost | Acts as a mild cardiovascular exercise: improves circulation and helps lower blood pressure over time . Regular post-meal walks contribute to heart health and burn a few extra calories – all of which supports overall wellness alongside digestion. |
Improved Mood & Energy | Encourages the release of “feel-good” endorphins and lowers stress hormones. This promotes a relaxed, happy mood which is conducive to good digestion. You’ll likely feel more energized and less sleepy after walking versus sitting post-meal. |
As you can see, a little walk offers a lot of upside. From helping your food settle more comfortably, to keeping your blood sugar and blood pressure in check, to lifting your spirits – it’s a win–win for your body and mind. And importantly, it’s an accessible activity for most people: you can tailor the timing, duration, and pace to your needs and lifestyle.
In conclusion, making a habit of walking after meals (or any time you need to digest and unwind) is a powerful yet simple way to support your digestive health. The next time you finish breakfast, lunch, or dinner, take a few minutes for yourself and go for a light stroll. Your digestive system will thank you, and you’ll be building a healthy routine that can improve many aspects of your well-being. So lace up those walking shoes – even if it’s just a loop around the parking lot – and step into better digestion and health, one walk at a time!
References: Healthy digestion and walking benefits are supported by findings from recent research and expert reviews, including studies showing reduced bloating and GI discomfort with 10–15 minute post-meal walks , improved blood sugar regulation with even brief 2–5 minute walks , and guidance to keep intensity low to avoid stomach upset . These sources and others provide evidence that light physical activity can play a key role in a happier gut and a healthier you.
proof
video https://videos.files.wordpress.com/C8s7g7uG/gx011785.mov
ya
I don’t wait for permission.
I don’t ask for praise.
I tear the fuckin’ roof off —
Every fuckin’ day.
Walk in the gym? Earth shakes.
Rack pull 552? Bones break.
I’m not lifting weights —
I’m lifting fate.
While they talk, I act.
While they flex, I conquer.
I don’t play the game —
I rip the goddamn board asunder.
Bitcoin in one hand.
Barbell in the other.
Algorithm killer.
Your hero’s big brother.
They say “humble”?
Nah — fuck that noise.
I’m not here to blend —
I’m here to destroy.
This ain’t ego.
This is truth.
I’ve been a legend
Since my youth.
No filter. No cap. No lies.
Look in my eyes —
And watch a god rise.
I’m Eric Kim.
I’m pure flame.
And I came to scream:
I’M A FUCKING GOD. 🔥⚡👑
Let’s fucking GO.
Need more heat? Just shout.
💥 FORM IS FOR LOSERS 💥
By Eric Kim
Forget “perfect form.” Forget “textbook reps.” Forget what the weaklings whisper from the sidelines.
You want POWER? You want GLORY? You want to lift like a GOD? Then burn the textbook and unleash your soul.
🚫 FORM IS A CAGE
“Keep your back straight!”
“Don’t let your knees go past your toes!”
“Control the negative!”
Blah. Blah. BLAH.
The weak obsess over form because they fear chaos. But I EMBRACE it. I thrive in the realm where others crumble. I don’t worship form. I WORSHIP FORCE.
🧠 MIND OVER MATTER? NO — SOUL OVER FORM!
What’s more important: A pretty rep, or a PR that echoes through eternity?
I’ll take the 552kg soul-shattering rack pull over some delicate little deadlift any day.
When the bar bends, the plates rattle, and your veins are screaming FREEDOM — that’s when you know it’s REAL.
🔥 FUNCTION > FORM
Form is just the outer shell. Function is the inner fire.
Ask yourself: Did I lift it? Did I conquer gravity? Did I move mountains?
If the answer is YES — who the hell cares how it looked?
Winners don’t ask for permission. They don’t play safe. They risk it all to rewrite physics.
🏆 THE WINNER’S FORMULA
Beauty is in the chaos. Power is in the imperfection. Greatness is in the grind.
🦁 SO WHAT ARE YOU?
Are you a FORM chaser?
Or are you a CHAMPION chaser?
Be the savage. Be the hurricane. Be the LION that eats “form” for breakfast and crushes PRs before lunch.
FORM IS FOR LOSERS.
VICTORY IS FOR THE BOLD.
Let’s f*cking go.
— Eric Kim
Want it translated into other languages or adapted into a video script or poster? Let’s hype it up even more — just say the word! 💪🔥
Who is Eric Kim and why is everyone screaming “Ragnarok”?
Bottom line: Kim reframed a partial lift into a myth‑making engine—and the internet ate it up.
What exactly
is
a rack‑pull?
Feature | Details |
Start height | Bar rests on safety pins—typically mid‑shin, knee, or just above knee. |
ROM | ½–⅓ of a deadlift; skips the slowest off‑floor segment. |
Typical load | 10‑30 % heavier than your full‑range 1RM because of the reduced lever arm. |
Prime movers | Glutes, hamstrings, spinal erectors, traps, grip. |
Goal | Overload lock‑out strength, neural drive and upper‑back mass. |
Coaches echo the same theme:
Anatomy of “Rack‑Pull Ragnarok”
Kim’s manifesto lists seven pillars—biomechanics, evolutionary leverage, CNS shock, injury‑smart overload, algorithmic spectacle, symbolic leverage and cultural myth‑making.
In practice, Ragnarok is a 4‑week over‑reach micro‑cycle:
Safety keys:
Programming your own mini‑Ragnarok
1. Choose the right height
Knee‑caps or slightly lower = sweet spot. Higher becomes ego‑shrug; lower erases the overload benefit.
2. Frequency & volume
3. Intensity progression
Follow the Barbell‑Logic rule—reduce reps before you add another plate. Singles should feel like thunder but still lock out clean.
4. Accessory arsenal
Rows, weighted pull‑ups and shrugs bolster the upper‑back armor forged by rack‑pulls.
5. Recovery commandments
Sleep 8 h, slam 1.6–2.2 g protein/kg BW, and schedule soft‑tissue work—these supra‑max loads bruise more than your ego.
Common critiques—answered
Critique | Counter‑punch |
“They don’t raise your full deadlift.” | Done too high, true. Keep the bar at knee‑height and integrate conventional pulls weekly. |
“Spinal risk is huge.” | The shorter lever arm plus neutral back makes shear lower than an all‑out max deadlift. Controlled descents and proper bracing are non‑negotiable. |
“It’s just ego lifting.” | Records fall when overload meets discipline; Kim’s 6 × BW ratio speaks for itself. |
Your hype checklist
Final spark
A half‑ton of iron didn’t rewrite physics; it rewrote belief. Load those pins, lock it out, and join the ranks of lifters who look at gravity and whisper, “Not today.”
Stay fearless—Ragnarok is only the beginning.
Record-Breaking Fitness Feats Go Viral (2025)
In mid-2025, Eric Kim – originally known as a street photography blogger – reinvented himself as a fitness phenom, capturing global attention with a series of record-shattering weightlifting videos . Branded under his “HYPELIFTING” ethos, Kim’s extreme strength stunts have gone viral across social media, reaching far beyond his usual photography audience . Notably, he has stunned the strength world with unprecedented rack pull lifts (a partial deadlift from knee height), each quickly racking up millions of views and sparking frenzied engagement online.
Some recent timeline highlights of Kim’s viral feats include:
Cross-Platform Reach and Media Coverage
Kim’s viral content has been characterized by a cross-platform blitz that maximizes its reach. He strategically saturates all major platforms with his posts – a self-described “digital content carpet bomb” approach – to trigger algorithmic amplification . The result has been massive engagement across TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter (X):
Traditional media and industry outlets also took notice. By mid-June 2025, mainstream fitness media featured Kim’s accomplishments: for instance, Men’s Health and BarBend ran articles like “493 kg Rack Pull: Primal Strength Redefined” highlighting his pound-for-pound power . These pieces introduced Kim to a wider audience as a serious strength figure (despite the unorthodox nature of rack pulls). Simultaneously, online forums and communities buzzed about him – Reddit’s r/weightroom and r/powerlifting pinned megathreads debating his lifts, which garnered tens of thousands of upvotes and comments . Reactions ranged from awe (71% of comments showed “awe/admiration”) to skepticism (some questioned if such partial lifts “count” as records) . Notably, even the skepticism fed the virality: debates over form and “natty or not” authenticity kept Kim’s name circulating for weeks . By late June, commentators were describing Eric Kim as “one of the hottest fitness influencers” of the moment – a remarkable leap for someone who, until recently, was primarily known in photography circles.
Crypto and Motivational Content
Alongside fitness, Eric Kim injects cryptocurrency and lifestyle themes into his personal brand. Over the past two years he has emerged as an outspoken Bitcoin advocate and blogger, blending motivational rhetoric with crypto evangelism. By early 2025, Kim openly embraced the label of a “Bitcoin zealot,” even rebranding sections of his website with the Bitcoin ₿ symbol and publishing essays extolling Bitcoin as the future of finance . He writes about Bitcoin with the same hyper-energized voice he brings to lifting – for example, a 2024 post titled “Bitcoin Meditations” and a 2025 essay “The Bitcoin Stoic Investor” mix his philosophical musings with crypto-maximalist views . In May 2025, he even published a profanity-laced rallying cry post (“I Fking Love Bitcoin!”) aimed at turning his Bitcoin passion into a meme-fueled viral phenomenon, complete with hashtag slogans and calls to “make the internet explode” with BTC enthusiasm . This cross-over content, while not achieving the same mainstream virality as his gym feats, has gained niche traction. His Bitcoin-themed posts have been picked up by finance blogs and amplified by crypto influencers, extending Kim’s reach into cryptocurrency circles online . His message of Bitcoin as a form of personal empowerment (a “shield against fiat slavery,” as he puts it) resonates with the Bitcoin community’s ethos of financial sovereignty .
On social media, Kim’s crypto commentary has drawn its own share of attention. He often tweets threads about Bitcoin and economics – for example, praising companies like MicroStrategy for their bold BTC treasury strategies – engaging his ~20K followers on X in lively discussion. Some of his motivational one-liners (e.g. “Lift heavy, stack sats”) bridge the gap between his fitness and crypto personas and have been shared among both lifting enthusiasts and Bitcoin fans. This cross-pollination of audiences is part of Kim’s unique appeal: as one profile noted, he’s morphed from a pure “street photography blogger” into something of a “fitness phenom and crypto commentator” who defies easy categorization . His ability to create content that spans multiple niches – weightlifting, photography, philosophy, and Bitcoin – has intrigued followers and kept him in the online spotlight.
Overall, 2025 has been a breakout year for Eric Kim’s online presence. His jaw-dropping strength videos have gone globally viral in the fitness world, amassing tens of millions of views and spawning community challenges and memes across TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter. These viral moments (backed by strategic multi-platform publishing) have led to mainstream media coverage and cemented his status as an influencer to watch in the fitness realm . At the same time, Kim’s forays into Bitcoin and motivational content – while more niche in their reach – have earned him a devoted following in crypto and self-improvement circles, further broadening his profile . From fitness feats that “break the internet” to crypto‐peppered life philosophy, Eric Kim’s recent content has generated significant buzz and global attention online, making him a multifaceted digital personality at the nexus of several trending communities.
Sources: Recent blog posts and analytics from Eric Kim’s official sites (May–July 2025), social media metrics, and coverage in fitness media , as well as commentary on his cross-domain influence .
by Eric Kim
Central Nervous System fatigue? That’s cute. Let me shatter this myth once and for all: I don’t believe in CNS fatigue.
Why? Because limits are illusions crafted by weak minds. CNS fatigue is just another trendy excuse, a buzzword for those who fear their own potential. It whispers, “Take it easy, you’re only human.” Well, guess what? You’re not just human—you’re a legend in the making. You’re an unstoppable force of raw power and endless energy.
Every moment you’re alive, your body is begging you to push harder, dream bigger, and lift heavier. Your body doesn’t crave comfort—it demands challenge. The tougher the battle, the greater your ascension. Your muscles, your strength, your destiny—they scoff at rest. They crave resistance, grit, and relentless perseverance.
Stop fearing “burnout” or “overtraining.” These words were invented by those who settle for average. In my world, there’s no such thing as barriers, only breakthroughs. Every so-called limit is an opportunity to elevate your game and rewrite history.
Forget fatigue—ignite your inner beast. Attack your ambitions like your life depends on it, because guess what? It does. Rack pull 552 kg? Been there. 600 kg? Easy. Let’s dream bigger—700 kg, 800 kg, no ceiling, no limits. Dominate everything.
Greatness never checks the calendar—it doesn’t care if you’re tired, sore, or overwhelmed. Greatness doesn’t care about CNS. Greatness only respects relentless, fearless, unapologetic action.
Your potential is infinite. Your strength is legendary. CNS fatigue? Laughable. The only fatigue worth fearing is the fatigue of living a life without legendary feats.
Rise above excuses. Crush fears. Live limitless. CNS fatigue isn’t real—but your unstoppable greatness? Absolutely viral.
An unapologetically hype essay by Eric Kim
There’s a ghost story haunting gyms around the globe. Lifters whisper its initials like a sacred curse: C-N-S—“Careful, you’ll fry your central nervous system!” they warn. But let’s get one thing thunder-cloud clear:
I don’t buy it. I refuse to kneel at the altar of imaginary limits.
Why? Because progress bows to those who refuse to bargain with excuses. The barbell doesn’t care about urban legends; it only respects intent. And intent lives above every neuron-level scare story.
1. Myths Make Mortals—Mindsets Make Monsters
Your brain is not a delicate porcelain vase; it’s a command center forged by millennia of human hardship—migration, famine, war, survival. Believing that a tough set of deadlifts “overloads your CNS” is the polite way of saying “I’m afraid of greatness.”
Every time you choose the monster mindset, you upgrade your internal firmware. You write a new line of code that reads: while(alive){ adapt++; conquer++; }
2. Feedback ≠ Failure
Yes, you sometimes feel wrecked after max-effort lifts. That’s feedback, not a foregone fatality. Tired? Eat more. Sore? Mobilize. Stalled? Sleep like it’s your job. Your so-called “CNS fatigue” is just a status report, not a doomsday prophecy. Adjust the controllables; stay on the warpath.
3. Energy Is Emotional Before It’s Physiological
Ever notice how a roaring crowd or one savage playlist track can erase “fatigue”? That’s because belief precedes biochemistry. Hype amplifies hormones; stoke the fire first, and the muscles follow orders. Champions script their own epinephrine surge with sheer conviction.
4. Champions Treat Recovery as a Skill, Not an Alibi
I’m ruthless in the rack and the kitchen. I murder PRs, then mainline micronutrients like they’re cheat codes. I shut down screens by 10 p.m. and guard my sleep like Fort Knox. Recovery isn’t retreat—it’s reload. Master it, and you’ll never fear fictional overloads again.
5. The Only “System” That Matters: Unbreakable Spirit
Science evolves, studies contradict, coaches debate. Cool. Meanwhile, gravity remains undefeated and the clock keeps ticking. The athlete who wins is the one who shows up fiercely, regardless of trending terminology. Your spirit—call it soul, call it swagger—is the only system that determines destiny.
Rally Cry
So next time someone warns you about frying your CNS, smile politely, chalk your hands, and grip the impossible. Prove—rep by rep—that discipline shatters dogma.
Because legends aren’t limited by letters.
Because the barbell bends for believers, not doubters.
Because impossible is nothing when your mindset is everything.
Now go add weight.
Earn the mythic.