Who is Tom Haviland? A Dive into the Life of Australia’s Unseen Strongman

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Tom Haviland, an Australian social media sensation and strongman, has captivated the fitness world with his awe-inspiring feats of strength and unique, almost mythical persona. At an incredible 6’8” (203 cm) and weighing 346 pounds (157 kg), Haviland boasts an enviable six-pack and unparalleled physique, which has even caught the attention of podcaster Joe Rogan.

However, Haviland remains an enigmatic figure who prefers to stay out of the spotlight. He conducts his strength training on a remote property on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland, Australia.

Tom Haviland’s Notable Feats of Strength​

Haviland’s strength is extraordinary, with feats rivaling and surpassing some of the most accomplished strongmen in the world. Below are some of his most jaw-dropping achievements:

Yoke Walk​

Haviland carried a homemade yoke weighing 1,200 pounds in one of his most viral Instagram posts. While strongman Mitchell Hooper has lifted to 1,350 pounds on a more stable yoke, he acknowledged that Haviland’s equipment wasn’t as stable. Hooper suggested that with better gear, Haviland could surpass his current record.

Bicep Curls​

Haviland’s personal best for barbell bicep curls is an astonishing 235 pounds. Even Mitchell Hooper, one of the strongest men alive, admitted he couldn’t come close to Haviland’s PR, giving Haviland the edge in this category.

Zercher Carry​

Haviland has performed a Zercher carry with 626 pounds for two sets, each lasting 30 seconds of continuous walking. For context, the World’s Strongest Man (WSM) competition uses a Conan’s Wheel weighing 440 pounds, making Haviland’s feat even more impressive.

Stone-to-Shoulder​

Haviland has lifted a 275-pound stone to his shoulder, walked five steps, performed squats, and repeated the process on the other shoulder. This extraordinary combination of strength and balance demonstrates his versatility as a strongman.

Deadlift​

Haviland deadlifted 926 pounds without using a suit or specialized deadlift bar. While Hooper achieved a 981-pound deadlift at the 2023 Arnold Strongman Classic, the conditions of Haviland’s lift—performed without specialized equipment—make the comparison remarkably close.

Squats​

Haviland’s squat record includes multiple reps at 692 pounds. While Hooper’s best is approximately 815 pounds for a double in knee sleeves, he considered this comparison a draw due to the sheer volume of Haviland’s reps.

Clean to Zercher Catch and Squat​

One of Haviland’s most unique feats is his 485-pound clean to Zercher catch and squat. Even Hooper admitted he couldn’t clean this weight, giving Haviland the upper hand in this lift.

An Unusual Training Philosophy​

Tom Haviland’s training routine is as unconventional as his personality. He often incorporates natural elements into his workouts, lifting truck parts and boulders alongside traditional weights. A recurring part of his regimen is his daily “90 with 90s”—a 90-minute hike carrying a 90-pound pack, showcasing his dedication to both strength and endurance.

His approach has been compared to that of Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson, better known as “The Mountain” from Game of Thrones, who famously holds the world record for the heaviest deadlift. While Haviland hasn’t officially competed at such a high level, his feats continue to earn him admiration and comparisons to legends of the strongman world.

Joe Rogan’s Endorsement​

Haviland’s unique persona and Herculean feats caught the attention of Joe Rogan, who mentioned him during an episode of The Joe Rogan Experience podcast. Describing him as a “real weirdo” and “freak,” Rogan praised Haviland’s insane workouts and physique. Much to the strongman's surprise, Rogan’s endorsement brought Haviland into the mainstream spotlight.

Haviland revealed in an interview with Daily Mail Australia that it was “quite a shock” to hear himself mentioned on the world’s biggest podcast. He took the opportunity to share insights into his upbringing, growing up in a small town on the mid-North Coast of New South Wales.

A Rising Star on Social Media​

Despite his privacy preference, Haviland has amassed over 700,000 followers on Instagram, where he shares videos of his outdoor training sessions and strength feats. His appearances on YouTube, like JailHouse Strong and Bare Strength, have garnered millions of views.

Fans are drawn to his authenticity, raw power, and blue-collar approach to fitness.

Frequently Asked Questions​

Does Tom Haviland compete in professional strongman events?

Haviland has participated in events like the Pig Iron Classic but has largely avoided the professional strongman circuit. His training focuses more on personal challenges than formal competition.

Why does Tom Haviland hide his face?

Haviland prefers to maintain a low profile and lead a private life. By not showing his face, he shifts the focus to his feats of strength rather than his identity.

What is Haviland’s training style?

Haviland incorporates traditional strength training and functional movements, often using homemade equipment and natural objects like boulders.