Gorillas are significantly stronger than humans, with estimates ranging from about 4 to 12 times stronger than the average human, depending on the source and specific strength measure.
Strength Comparison
- Overall Strength : Gorillas, especially adult male silverbacks, are considered to be roughly 4 to 9 times stronger than an average human, with some sources suggesting up to 12 times stronger
- Lifting Ability : A silverback gorilla can reportedly bench press or lift weights up to around 4,000 pounds (1,810 kg), whereas a well-trained human can lift up to about 885 pounds (401.5 kg)
- Pulling Force : Gorillas' upper bodies alone can exert pulling forces over 1,800 pounds (816 kg), far exceeding the 300–400 pounds (136–181 kg) maximum pulling force of well-trained humans
- Muscle Composition : Gorillas have a higher proportion of fast-twitch muscle fibers and longer muscle fibers than humans, enabling them to generate more explosive power and strength over a larger range of motion. Humans have more slow-twitch fibers suited for endurance rather than raw power
- Physical Build : Silverback gorillas weigh between 136 to 227 kg (300 to 500 lbs), significantly heavier and more muscular than the average human (around 80 kg or 180 lbs). Their skeletons are thicker and denser, supporting their greater muscle mass and strength
- Bite Force : Gorillas have a bite force of about 1,300 pounds per square inch (psi), which is roughly 6 to 10 times stronger than the average human bite force (120-200 psi), and even stronger than that of lions
Summary
Aspect| Gorilla (Silverback)| Average Human
---|---|---
Weight| 136–227 kg (300–500 lbs)| ~80 kg (180 lbs)
Strength multiplier| 4 to 12 times stronger| Baseline
Max lifting force| ~4,000 lbs (1,810 kg)| ~885 lbs (401.5 kg)
Pulling force| ~1,800 lbs (816 kg)| 300–400 lbs (136–181 kg)
Bite force| ~1,300 psi| 120–200 psi
Muscle fibers| More fast-twitch, longer fibers| More slow-twitch fibers
In conclusion, gorillas possess vastly superior natural strength compared to humans, especially in upper body power, due to their muscular build, muscle fiber composition, and skeletal structure. Even the strongest humans cannot match the raw physical power of a silverback gorilla
