A champion who has won the title of World’s Strongest Woman three times showcased her exceptional power by pulling an 18-ton Aldi truck.
Teaming up with Aldi, Rebecca Roberts demonstrated how everyday activities like grocery shopping can serve as effective workouts. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches tall, she then proceeded to pull a 17.8-ton truck loaded with Aldi’s protein and fitness Specialbuys collection. Roberts highlighted that routine tasks such as carrying groceries can mimic the movements involved in elite strength training.
Using filled shopping bags for exercises like curls, squats, and presses can enhance muscle strength, addressing the challenge many Brits face in finding time for regular exercise, as revealed by a survey of 2,000 individuals. The study found that over a third (35 percent) struggle to maintain a consistent exercise routine due to factors such as cost, motivation, and time constraints.
The research also unveiled that a significant portion of Brits (36 percent) visit the supermarket multiple times a week, with 65 percent indicating they would value carrying their shopping more if they knew it contributed to building strength.
An average shopping bag, filled with daily essentials like bread, milk, butter, beans, and protein items, weighs approximately 6-10kg. This weight is more substantial than many people realize. Roberts explained how actions involved in carrying shopping bags, such as gripping weight, maintaining posture, and moving steadily, closely resemble the principles of strength training used in competitions.
This “hidden workout” offers a convenient fitness solution for busy individuals, incorporating activities like Farmer’s carries, which entail walking with a bag in each hand.
Other exercises like bag squats, curls, presses, and lunges with weighted bags can also contribute to building strength. Research indicated that more than half (51 percent) of Brits feel a sense of accomplishment after transporting their shopping home, underlining the fitness potential of the weekly shopping routine.
Emphasizing the importance of functional strength, Rebecca stated that activities like carrying a full shopping load resemble the functional strength training she undergoes for competitions. Alongside exercise, the study highlighted the increasing focus on protein intake, with almost half (49 percent) of Brits striving to consume more protein.
The survey also indicated a shift in priorities, with nearly a quarter (23 percent) choosing protein intake and exercise over alcohol consumption in January. Additionally, a large majority (77 percent) actively seek high-protein products during their shopping trips.
Julie Ashfield, Aldi UK’s Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted the physical demands of routine activities like the weekly shop, where individuals may inadvertently carry 6-10kg bags. By collaborating with Rebecca, Aldi aimed to showcase how grocery shopping can contribute to functional strength training. With a substantial portion of Brits aiming to increase protein intake, Aldi’s range serves as a supportive option for fitness enthusiasts.
At Reach and across our entities we and our partners use information collected through cookies and
