Tactical Strength Challenge

 The Tactical Strength Challenge (TSC) is a strength competition consisting of three events:

• A three-attempt powerlifting deadlift
• Pullups for max reps
• Kettlebell snatches for max reps in a 5:00 time period

The winner is determined by combined placement in the three events.  For example, if Lifter A finishes third in the deadlift, fifth in pullups, and second in snatches, his score is 10 (3+5+2).  The lowest combined score wins. In the event of a deadlift tie, the lighter competitor places higher.  In the event of a pullup tie, the heavier competitor places higher. In the event of a snatch tie, the tie stands.  In the event of an overall tie (two or more lifters get same combined score), the tie stands.

The original TSC was developed by Pavel Tsatsouline. We have made a couple of changes from the original competition. In the original, the events included one-legged squats ("pistols") done with a kettlebell. The new TSC substitutes the deadlift, which is simpler and more user-friendly. Also in the original, kettlebell snatches were done with only one switch of the arm allowed, and were not timed. We have changed the rules to allow multiple switches and imposed a 5:00 time limit. These changes make snatches less technical and a harder test of cardiovascular fitness. The 10kg (22 lbs) used for pullups in the Men's Elite Division comes from an old standard used by some Soviet special forces units (Spetznatz). This standard specified that candidates would be able to do 18 strict pullups with 10kg of added gear.

For more information, click on the link below:

http://www.tacticalstrengthchallenge.com/