Aiming for World Championship gold! 💪

What does your training routine look like?

I try to arm wrestle at least twice a week, spending at least four hours specifically arm wrestling with a partner at a table. Otherwise, I train my body as much as I can and fit in as much static and repetitive training as possible. I also do a lot of technique training in daily life, like finding good angles for static training when carrying shopping bags. If I sum it all up, it’s about three days of gym training and two arm wrestling sessions a week, plus whatever I can fit into my daily routine.

What mental skills are essential for success in arm wrestling?

Staying calm is crucial. My clubmates often tell me to relax because I tend to get too hyped before a competition and become a bit too tense. At the last Swedish Championship, I really found my inner calm, and things went really well.

How do you prepare for a World Championship?

This is my first World Championship, and I’d say the biggest difference compared to a "regular" competition is the mental aspect. The preparations themselves aren’t that different. It’s about getting your mind to realize that it’s a World Championship and not a local competition.

Do you have any role models you look up to?

The three professional arm wrestlers from my club (Vätternbrytarna Motala Arm Wrestling Club) – Lovisa, Timmy, and Robin – are the driving force for me, considering what they’ve achieved in their careers. I also check out other arm wrestlers’ techniques, but I’d say Lovisa, Timmy, and Robin are the ones who inspire me the most.

How do you balance training with work?

It’s tough at times, but it means a lot that Implenia allows me to take time off to compete. Since I work shifts, I usually bring resistance bands with me to get in as much training as possible. The hotel where I stay is also very accommodating, and they let me use the gym even when it’s closed.

Are there any lessons from the sport that you apply to your job?

Even if something feels impossible, you can’t give up😊

What’s been your most memorable moment in arm wrestling so far?

My first competition at home and then this year’s Swedish Championship. It went really well; I came first and second, in right and left hand. I’m right-handed, but I’m stronger in my left arm.

If you could challenge anyone, who would it be and why?

John Brzenk. It would be amazing to arm wrestle against him. He’s "the GOAT" in arm wrestling. When you talk about arm wrestling, you talk about John Brzenk. He’s won almost everything there is to win in the sport and is still active, even at 60 years old.

Do you have any tips for someone who wants to try arm wrestling?

Just go for it! You won’t find a better family atmosphere, apart from your own family, of course.

What are your training goals?

In the short term, I want to compete in as many tournaments as possible after the World Championship. Looking two to three years ahead, I want to be so good in my class that whoever faces me knows it’s going to be tough.

Finally, what are you most looking forward to at the World Championship?

Standing on top of the podium! I’m heading to the World Championship, just like any other competition, with the mindset that “it’s just a hand and an arm, and they’re coming home with me."

Thanks for the chat, Tobias! We wish you the best of luck in Greece!