Zercher Carry (Barbell)
A loaded carry where the barbell is held in the crook of the elbows against the chest, building functional strength and core stability.
Instructions
- Position a barbell in front of you at hip height.
- Bend your knees and position your elbows under the barbell, resting it in the crook of your elbows against your chest.
- Stand upright, keeping your core tight and your posture upright.
- Walk forward at a controlled pace, maintaining a stable grip on the barbell.
- Complete the carry for the prescribed distance or duration, then carefully lower the barbell back down.
Tips
- Keep the barbell close to your chest throughout the movement for stability.
- Maintain an upright posture and avoid leaning backward.
- Breathing is important; take steady breaths rather than holding your breath.
- This is an excellent exercise for core stability and functional strength.
- Track by distance rather than reps, as the challenge is maintaining the carry.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Distance | Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male | Female | |||
| Gain strength | 3 | 300 m | 22.5 kg | 12.5 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 700 m | 20 kg | 10 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 1.3 km | 15 kg | 7.5 kg |