Neanderthals were incredibly strong, significantly stronger than modern humans by estimated measures. Their upper body strength, especially in their arms and shoulders, was about twice that of modern humans, with muscle mass nearly double in key areas like chest, arms, and shoulders. They had dense bones that allowed them to handle extreme physical loads without fractures. Studies suggest they could bench press over 700 lbs (317 kg), possibly reaching 1,000 lbs (453 kg) or more. Their grip strength was nearly twice that of the strongest modern humans, with the capacity to crush bones or snap wooden spears. Their punch force might have been around 2,000 to 3,000 lbs of force, enough to break bones with a single blow. Neanderthals had strong legs and spines that would have enabled deadlifts comparable or superior to modern strongmen (lifting 1,100 lbs or 500 kg+), carrying heavy animal carcasses several miles across rugged terrain. Overall, their build (shorter limbs, stocky bodies) was adapted for power, stability, and endurance in the harsh Ice Age environment, making them biological powerhouses unrivaled by modern trained athletes in raw strength.
Physical Characteristics Supporting Strength
- Stocky with short, powerful limbs optimized for force and heat conservation.
- Dense bones and large muscle attachments indicative of great muscular power.
- Strong trapezius, deltoid, and tricep muscles built through active lifestyle, such as dragging heavy meat.
- Average Neanderthal males weighed around 78 kg (172 lbs), comparable to modern humans but packed with more muscle mass.
Strength in Context
- Neanderthals were apex predators who hunted large Ice Age animals close-range, requiring brute force and endurance.
- Their strength was crucial for survival and hunting techniques like stabbing or wrestling prey.
- Despite their strength, they ultimately disappeared, possibly due to other factors beyond physical capability.
