Bob Peoples

Bob Peoples was an American powerlifter and farmer best known for breaking the record for the world's heaviest deadlift. He first set the light-heavyweight deadlift world record in 1946 with 651 pounds at a body weight of 175 pounds, beat it in 1947 with 710 pounds at 185 pounds, and in 1949 set a long-standing record with 725.75 pounds at 181 pounds. He is also noted for having invented the power rack and lifting straps and for popularising the conscious use of the rounded-back style in the deadlift. His original power rack and wooden barbell are displayed at the H.J. Lutcher Stark Center for Physical Culture and Sports.