The Atlas Stones are a signature event in strongman competitions, particularly at the World's Strongest Man (WSM) contest. Introduced in 1986, the event typically involves lifting five heavy, spherical stones of increasing weight and placing them on top of platforms. The stones generally range from 220–350 pounds (100–159 kg). The platforms are placed along a 16–33-foot (5–10 m) course.
The Atlas Stones event is often the final event of the WSM competition and can determine the winner. In earlier years, successfully lifting all five stones was a rare feat, but now it is generally expected, making the speed of completion a key factor. Over time, the stones have increased in weight, and the platforms have increased in height, adding to the challenge. The event is strongly associated with strongman legends like Marius Pudzianowski, Magnus Samuelsson, Magnús ver Magnússon, and Žydrūnas Savickas. Tom Stoltman won the 2021 World's Strongest Man after defeating Brian Shaw in the Atlas Stones event, becoming the first Scotsman to ever win the title.
