Building Muscle and Tearing Records: The Ed Coan Story
The Squat King: Ed Coan
Ed Coan, born on July 21, 1963, is a legendary raw powerlifter widely regarded as one of the greatest of all time. Throughout his illustrious career, he set multiple world records in the squat, deadlift, and total.
Humble Beginnings
Coan's journey began in a small town in Pennsylvania. Despite facing a challenging childhood, he discovered his passion for powerlifting at an early age. With limited resources, he trained diligently in his basement, using makeshift equipment.
Unmatched Dominance
Coan's relentless dedication and exceptional genetics propelled him to the top of the powerlifting world. He won his first National Powerlifting Championship in 1987 and went on to dominate the sport for over two decades. Coan holds the all-time world record in the raw squat, with an astounding lift of 1,019 pounds.
Training Philosophy
Coan's training philosophy centered around heavy compound lifts and high-intensity intervals. He emphasized strict form and believed in pushing his limits consistently. His workouts were notoriously brutal, often lasting several hours.
Legacy and Impact
Coan retired from competitive powerlifting in 2011, but his legacy continues to inspire lifters worldwide. His world records remain untouched, and his training methods have been adopted by countless athletes seeking to achieve their full potential.
Personal Life
Beyond the gym, Coan is a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is a successful businessman and has written several books on powerlifting and strength training.
Fitness Program
Coan's fitness program was highly individualized, but some of his key principles include:
- Prioritizing compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses
- Training each muscle group twice per week
- Using heavy weights and low repetitions
- Emphasizing proper form above all else
- Incorporating cardio for cardiovascular health
Nutrition
Coan followed a strict diet to support his intense training. His meals were high in protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats:
- Breakfast: Oatmeal with fruit and nuts
- Lunch: Grilled chicken with brown rice and broccoli
- Dinner: Steak with baked potato and asparagus
- Snacks: Protein shakes, fruit, and nuts
Supplements
Coan used a range of supplements to enhance his performance and recovery, including:
- Creatine
- Beta-alanine
- Glucosamine
- Fish oil
Conclusion
Ed Coan's extraordinary achievements in powerlifting have solidified his status as a legendary figure in the sport. His dedication, hard work, and relentless pursuit of excellence continue to inspire and motivate aspiring lifters everywhere.
