Chimpanzees are about 1.5 to 2 times stronger than the average human when considering pulling and jumping strength relative to their body size
. This strength advantage is mainly due to their muscle composition: chimpanzee muscles have a higher proportion (around 67%) of fast-twitch fibers, which contract quickly and generate more power for short bursts of intense activity, unlike humans who have more slow-twitch fibers suited for endurance
. In terms of lifting or pulling, a chimpanzee can likely handle around 150 to 200 pounds (68 to 91 kilograms), which is impressive given their smaller size compared to humans
. However, humans generally outperform chimps in lifting heavy objects in a controlled manner due to differences in muscle distribution, posture, and endurance adaptations
. Early exaggerated claims suggested chimps could be 5 to 10 times stronger than humans, but modern studies have corrected this to a more modest and scientifically supported figure of about 1.35 to 1.5 times stronger muscle power per unit mass
. The myth of extreme chimp strength likely originated from early 20th-century experiments with flawed methodologies
. In summary, chimpanzees are significantly stronger than humans pound-for- pound, especially for quick, powerful movements, but not to the extreme levels often portrayed in popular media. Their strength is specialized for their arboreal lifestyle, aiding in climbing and swinging through trees
