Japan’s Hidden Strength Culture You Didn’t Know Of - Strength Unknown - Chikara Ishi 力石

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#stonelifting #chikaraishi #japan
#worldsstrongestman #licis #martins #martinslicis #Podium #Reign #Strongman #strengthunknown #strength #stone #stonelifting #worldsstrongestman #weightlifting

[@nonbei_power]

Thank you for letting me help out on your adventure and for being such great friends. ♡ May we have many more adventures together in the future! そしてこの動画と次の動画が、日本の力文化の普及に役立ちますよ～に！！🙏

[@romarkweiss1795]

Thank you for everything!

[@ピッピ-i6r]

保さん、マーティンズさんといつの間に、こんな素晴らしい取材をしていたのですか？！とても感動しました😍心から感謝🙏

[@nonbei_power]

@@ピッピ-i6r 実はこれがマーティンズの主な目的でした！(笑) 撮影終わってから全国回って遊びまくってたけど、元々はドキュメンタリーのために来日しました！ 12月3日公開の第二話は相撲部屋密着です！

[@MartinsLicis]

It was the best trip of my life 🥹 Thank you for all the help ❤️💪

[@Ben-xf7uy]

Bro, you have that Jiri Prochazca look going on. LHW world champion in MMA. Known as the Czech Samurai! A real bad ass who was heavily influenced by the 5 Rings and samurai culture.

[@FBerserkerF1]

What a legend for not breaking the Yokozuna Stone record, tieing it was very respectful as it looked like he definitely could've broken it.

[@adam_nykali]

Especially since we don't know to what extent the PEDs are responsible

[@misterringer]

@@adam_nykali you think they don't have PED's in Japan?

[@historynerd1977]

@@misterringer Not in 1800s when is was actually lifted. Thats why its respectful.

[@misterringer]

@@historynerd1977 Fair play. I assumed some modern Japanese strongmen had lifted it and broke the record since then. If it's really that longstanding, then yeah all good.

[@nerdikles]

Jfc, yall can't just let a statement ride. Everyone has to say "akshually🤓🤡"

[@janis5168]

Huge respect,Martins.Not only for exploring different cultures and learning languages,but you are respectful and nice man.

[@aleaarnett6003]

The Strength Unknown series is truly special. Thank you for cultivating and showcasing a thoughtful and spiritual side of strength sports! I look forward to every episode.

[@Alex76Galex]

Another masterpiece on this channel. These videos are beyond everything, just wow. It gave me the will to travel to lift stones in differents countries and learn their history. I am currently planinng the first trip for 2024, starting with Scotland. Thank you guys deeply for the inspiration...

[@50522094]

Bro these are so amazing!

[@strongman-channel]

日本の、力文化の歴史、今を教えてくれてありがとう！日本に住んでいながら、色々なことを考えさせられました☺️

[@RareAries323]

This made me emotional I think it's because we call rocks grandfathers in Ojibwe native American tradition or mishomis. Mishomis has seen and been thru everything and will still be here long after everything and everyone around us ceases to exist, grandfathers and mountains shall remain. You can tell he was getting that ancient energy when lifting the stones, I'm motivated to lift some grandfathers now and carrying them uphill for an amazing workout connecting with nature at the same time.

[@arnoldfreeman2885]

Haha Hey Martins, I was the guy you met in Asakusa! I’m sorry we couldn’t chat more. I hope you come back to Tokyo!

[@jeffcubbage7342]

I am so impressed by you guys. Wonderful shots, amazing audio, and wtf Martins your Japanese is unbelievable! I lived in Japan for 2 years and have been a fan of strongman since I was a little kid and saw WSM on tv, and I had no idea Japan had a stone culture like this! This episode was special. Thanks guys.

[@GiantsLiveSTRONGMAN]

Another amazing episode chaps - see you in Heathrow in a few days time! 💪😘

[@evfdurs]

this is SOOOOO GOOD. so much history condensed here. the historian is doing such an amazing job. martins also did a great job speaking japanese and connecting even better to the locals. i really love how the stones were named after the men who lifted them. it is amazing

[@macmanmanny3983]

It brings up many questions doesn't it? This series is very versatile indeed. This episode leaves me wanting more.. it also makes me look up a lot on the interwebs, to answer those questions that come up while watching this episode.Beautifully done. (2nd time watching this episode,.. 2nd day knowing about this channel... not japanese... not into strongman... however, very impressed entertained and educated.)

[@Budsport_TV]

Hold up, Martins speaks Japanese too!?! What an impressive pairing you and Romark have made. Seriously impressed by this series and can’t wait for MARTINS return to strongman in 2024 in which I impinge he’ll be Wrecking the competition 👊 🪨 15:12 17:55 p.s. Can’t wait to see Martins vs The Moose.

[@rpe11allthingsstrength]

The best type of content in order to spread the spiritual and Community aspect of strength. Thanks for the content, guys!

[@a5noble2]

That was nice to "tie the record". Keeps the record in Japan, something the guy seemed proud of. Also that new stone-shouldering technique on display! Looks impressive.

[@victorkonon]

Martins, your work on strength documentaries is incredible! You and your team are able to capture the essence of strength culture and philosophy around the world AND bring a top-level scenic capture paired with your unexpectedly deep narration. Thank you for your time and dedication. I am sure people in NatGeo/Discovery/History channels, and James Cameron himself are of the same opinion if they would have seen your work.

[@melvinbengtsson8652]

Holy shit this is great. The dedication, the quality, the entertainment value and the educational value... Absolutely amazing.

[@President_Biglou]

This and his team just never fails to amaze me for every single content! You guys have no idea how long I've waited for your uploads. Much love from the Philippines brothers!

[@chadscatharsis3287]

I would have to say my strength lies more between my ears than in my physical. And I don't really watch nor have any real interest in strongman, BUT you don't show what most, at least myself, have thought of strongman. The side of "strength" that you show and the WAY you show it has me and keeps me inthralled! You are a phenomenal storyteller telling stories of cultures and history and it is absolute intellectually stimulating and I'm looking forward to the next weighty adventure!!

[@FatHulkRideEbike]

You are not only rediscovering these places around the world, you are also like an ambassador for strongman. We'll see some people you inspired in strongman in the years to come.

[@Staroy]

Your narration on these is superb!

[@Toropetskii]

Awesome to see more strongmen get involved with sumo and strength-related pursuits in Japan. Well done on bringing some of this to light - it'd be awesome to see that map come to life, and noting which stones are still liftable (with proper permission of course).

[@trewqqwerty3857]

i dont understand why your content isnt bigger,its so well made,im sure it will blow up sooner or later as more people stumble on it,mine was the lu xiaojun vid. perhaps its because its not so called as hyper or fast paced which is what young people like watchingt,but i really do enjoy this form of content which i dont see as much of on the platform anymore

[@kasperv967]

That was fantastic! I love the story about the competing villagers just lifting the stone and carrying it back home to prove they were the strongest haha!

[@erikjohanson3929]

This just showed up randomly in my youtube feed. And it is really really interesting to watch. I just have to check out the rest of this channel next. I love watching cultural stuff like this. Didn't think I would ever be so entranced by a video about lifting stuff, but here I am.

[@MartinsLicis]

Yes it’s workings! thank you for watching!

[@D_travelingsolo]

As much as Brian Shaw loves forgotten and ancient feats of strength, I can almost guarantee he would love a tour like this.

[@BusanKevin]

That was awesome and inspiring. Japan is close to my heart. One day I hope to respectfully try chikara ishi

[@LeaveMeAlonePlz]

Martins I'm a big fan! I only just found your channel, but I'm literally going to binge watch all your videos! Cheers big man!

[@DeeJay_USA]

I fell in love with a Japanese woman in Japan after covid. Its my favorite culture on earth and the people are amazing. I wasn't aware of stone lifting in Japan, but I suggest anyone who travels there to enjoy sumo, their amazing athletes

[@JacobSpinoMMA]

I am moved and inspired by this rich history and culture. You have my biggest thanks and gratitude to share such an amazing piece of art in the form of the free video. You (and Romark ofc) are worthy of all your success to come in life.

[@Jqteadventures1659]

I think this has been my favourite strength unknown just for the passion and the sacredness of it to Japan absolutely amazing yet another amazing episode. Thank you all.

[@Sobersunrise]

You guys are truly something special and I hope the bigger studies finally take notice and we get to see this and future productions reach a grander audience!

[@coachbobkapustka4803]

i could have watched this for 2 hours. love this series. keep it up MArtins and Romark!

[@Frondlock]

I don't know your channel nor your work and did not know anything about Chikara Ishi either. I stumble by chance of yt recommandations on the Sumo video that mentioned this one so watched this one first. It was a very cool video, nicely done, approaching the subject from different perspectives and, as it felt from watching, with respect for the stones, the people and the tradition. Thanks for sharing!

[@ronp4529]

Martins, I'm so thankful that you're traveling and highlighting all these amazing people and places, lifting styles and history. Your curiosity, kindness and spirit shine through in each new video. Can't wait to see where Strength Unknown takes us next.

[@Holdfast-]

This might be my favorite episode yet! Also it's fun to see Martins speaking nihongo jouzu 😉

[@--SPQR--]

Best episode yet, probably due to the personal connection that Martins shares with Japan

[@julianhernandez6457]

Another great one guys, thank you all soo much. Martins looks ready for arnolds and worlds now, cant wait for march.

[@RidgeSmithTech]

This is my favorite Strength Unknown yet, so cool! Thanks guys!

[@odinshunter9297]

Just keep making content Martin you guys are a breath of fresh air in between all the chaos on my feed😊

[@fatsuperfly]

Amazing vid! This is definitely cool, hope it becomes bigger in japan. Would love to see that as a ground for strongmen competing in stones. Also, the place is amazing, would be cool to see it blossom.

[@bagaskarahadjarputra6070]

Japan arguably Martins favorite country he had visit, BIG TIME. I just saw him over a month via his IG having a big fun journey in there. You can tell this one will be his favorite visit. Let alone him having a chance to visit Japanese Strongest Man 2023 Qualifier with the main promotor is totally a quite esential part of his role in global Strength Community

[@MartinsLicis]

you speak truth 😆

[@bagaskarahadjarputra6070]

@@MartinsLicis As a Japan's enthusiast, I can relate 😅. Thanks for the reply and go kick ass your World's Strongest Nation 😁

[@kaisanderson8061]

Your videos man are like a mini movie just stunning content can’t wait for the sumo just keep smashing it man ❤

[@anthonyproffitt5341]

Thanks! Love these stories paying homage to historical strength?

[@MartinsLicis]

Thank you so much for the support!! 🙏🫶

[@maximuspalicante9731]

What a beautiful video! I always knew there was beauty in strength...but Japan takes it to a spiritual level. Thank you Martins for filming this for us

[@morganw.2473]

I haven't caught Romark over on Reddit lately to tell him that every episode just keeps getting better and better. The time he took to sharpen his videography and editing skills is really shining now. Martins's narration has come along nicely and soundtrack/background music just compliments the scenery and story perfectly. All the time and effort in shooting, editing, translating, etc. has proven well worth it. Top notch series! 👍

[@romarkweiss1795]

Thanks my man ❤❤

[@JackgarPrime]

I'd love if this video gets a lot of other strongmen to travel to Japan and try their hand at these stones.

[@beefxcake2523]

awesome episode! how many of us would have no idea of the strength sports you've found travelling. thank you and romark and everyone involved!

[@mohammadosmanriaz6237]

For a lean person he is very strong. I am talking about the guy in yellow shirt. Strength goes beyond muscles. There is a neurological aspect aswell. Without nerves, muscles can't do much. You can train your nervous system to push the limit of how much of your muscles is truly used.

[@cizia69]

Japan is simply a superior culture. By superior I mean their collective self-control, respect, cultural complexity, and above all intelligence.

[@markstafford3227]

That was great to watch thank you all for slowing us this amazing world of Japanese stones 🙏🏻

[@swordseeker8910]

This is a beautiful episode and my most favorite one so far. I've always wanted to go and visit Japan again, and this has given me the reason to do it. I probably wont be able to touch these stones, but just to see them is going to be an experience already.

[@MartinsLicis]

I hope you do! Our friend David, from this video, is working hard on the stone map!

[@swordseeker8910]

@@MartinsLicis am already looking at going next year! 💪

[@roy7stars]

Big love Martins and Romark!! I have been waiting to witness ur adventures in Japan since we met at China’s strongest! ❤️❤️

[@GetBack2023Now]

Had no idea Martins and his team makes genuine MOVIES like this. What an amazing channel!

[@kaguth]

I'm pretty obsessed with Japanese culture but had no idea they had a history of Strength Sports! Thanks for the enlightening video

[@jamesbrisendine]

Martins, you and your team put together some absolutely fantastic content! Fantastic camerawork, audio was on point, and your narration... i could watch a multi hour video of you guys lifting stones!

[@MartinsLicis]

Thank you so much! We keep trying to improve.

[@CameloEngarrafado]

the production value on this, my dude, amazing work!

[@strongmanknut]

Thank you for the good films you make! I've seen everyone and good luck at Arnolds in 2024👊 Best wishes from Norway🎉

[@AlabamaWildman]

This is the best series on youtube

[@Marroca1n]

I love you guys!! Thanks alot!

[@nicholasneyhart396]

That ~400lb shoulder lift was insane. I wish I could do that, but I would likely need to gain some weight, and my heart won't appreciate that.

[@Cody-dk6fg]

Lovely to see someone like Martins truly appreciate the strength and athleticism of rikishi as well as Japanese culture. Incredible video.

[@Idontseethereply]

I'm glad that I'm researching and talking about the right information.

[@p4573qu3]

Incredible video. The fact that you brought a pad to not damage the stones speaks volume about the respect you have for this culture.

[@luckosteve12]

Fantastic. Always happy to see another installment of Strength Unknown.

[@kevinchitsaz9447]

This was the best one yet, felt like I was watching a documentary

[@Not_Ferrari]

I'm really impressed by Martins' Japanese!

[@LeGou]

Martins is the David Attenborough of strength. Love it ❤

[@maxb8749]

This guy makes the most interesting and high quality videos. Every single video I've seen this guy make feels like a mini documentary.

[@99BravoZulu]

I love how respectful and reverent you are of this tradition; well done Sir.

[@dees.daniel7]

Stone lifting and martial arts has been my passion for over 30 years. Beautiful to see the country I love and feats of strength to keep me motivated. Yosh!

[@hughannplucena3501]

Maaaaaan Martins Licis has got some of the best pure content in youtube right now for any strength fans out there. Huge huge respect to Licis and Romark.

[@liftonstrongman]

This is super cool! It's amazing getting to see what you uncovered after wanting to go for so long!

[@vredneckv]

Martins speaking Japanese was cool. Great episode, I'll be definitely waiting for the Sumo one.

[@adrianflo6481]

Bybon, son of Phola, has lifted me over head with one hand

[@mihaicostache9241]

the strenght related part is great, but the nicest surprise is hearing Martins speak japanese❤

[@rob_senpai]

Amazing work, really a great watch. More power to you guys. :)

[@TheMovieWalker]

大学の頃、岡山に住んでたから地理的に総社市のことも分かるんですが、外人さんがあんな山奥まで行かれただけでも凄いなと感じました

[@fleem5]

I don’t know how your video made it on my recommendation list, but I’m glad it did. Your profound respect for the history is very much appreciated. Fantastic watch.

[@MartinsLicis]

I appreciate that!

[@CrimsonDragonX7]

Watching this giant of a man tip toe around, obviously putting in great effort to be respectful of the people and places, being very humble and treating everything with great reverence is just so precious and amazing i love it

[@theweakstrongman]

Thanks for another great Strength Unknown episode. You got me noticing natural stones all over town now, at the park, shopping centers, neighbors yards, wherever. and when I see one I think I can shoulder and I won't get in trouble I try to give it a shot.

[@Zephyrbal]

I think what this series has taught me most of all is that people are the same everywhere. See a big rock, want to pick it up. Pick up the big rock, want to pick up a bigger rock.

[@PONTIANGOD]

I’m From Drosato Central Macedonia A Small Village At 58 Still Believe In Lifting Heavy And Will Share Your Motivation And Humble Ways I Am Power For Life Your The Best

[@Thulgore]

This is so important and beautiful. Thank you for sharing this to the world.

[@ЯрославМальцев-х7й]

Great video. Amazing how my guy can be so respectful and so american at the same time.

[@sandrabradley6878]

My absolute favorite Episode so far! Thank you for showing us the amazing stone lifiting history of Japan! I hope I will be able to make it over there some day and be able to lift some of the Chikara Ishi. Much love to you Martins

[@murdamooch]

I love that he was aloud to engage with these historical objects further adding to their story

[@Mr.Ciobanu]

Most impressive thing is that Martins learned and understand the language to a certain extent! Respect!

[@MrGren-hq8yw]

Its Dec 3 and I'm patiently awaiting the Sumo episode upload. I LOVE Sumo and i think its gonna be such a cool episode.

[@inabearsuit2425]

first video ive seen of yours and just the pure respect you had for these stones and the lifts themselves was incredible. Thank you.

[@jespermeisel9799]

Martins, calm down with the top quality youtube content, you make others content creators embarrassed. Greetings from The Philippines :D

[@laureeeent]

GG Martins and Roman! Fantastic doc thanks for sharing!

[@JMR6813]

This is my favorite series on KZbin! I’m always excited to see that a new episode is out!

[@genuinehawken]

Fantastic episode and so cool to see! Japan was always on my bucket list and now i gotta add lifting some of these!

[@Alienspecies635]

Love this series. This was so well thought out and so 🔥 thank you Martins and Romark and who ever else is behind the scenes that was don’t know about that is helping. Amazing,high quality,l and just a very captivating series all around. Can’t wait till you go to Greece 🇬🇷 maybe you can meet up Kryiaklios Grizzly. That guy is a freak with his insane unconventional liftis.

[@SFRB1187]

I traveled to Japan years ago and this makes me want to go back just to see these stones. What an awesome journey, can’t wait for the next episode!

[@IncogLion]

I love the guy in the Spiderman shirt. Seems like a very hard working, down to earth man.

[@NathanRidings]

This has been by far the best series on strength sport ever created.

[@Nikita_Turbo]

Martins, the unknown strength series is an absolute treat to watch. Thank you!

[@heinrichswanepoel6566]

Hope you get this message licis. Do South Africa next . We have strong afrikaners farm boys and strong Zulu warriors. Love your work .definitely something refreshing in a time where strength is under attack an seen as toxic. The truth the most humble people I've met are the blokes in the gym .

[@Saki-wy8mj]

Thank you. I'm a Japanese working in athlete performance industry. I never knew this culture my own country has!! Thank you again 😊