Strongman Training & Gear Guides | The Dark Horse Journal

The Dark Horse Journal

Training advice, strongman stories, competition insights and practical product guides from England’s Strongest Man, Paddy Haynes.

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Why Budgie Smugglers?

August 10, 2026Paddy Haynes
I know what you’re thinking… Budgie smugglers and strongmen? Those two worlds should definitely not mix. But we disagree. Yes, they’re a bit of fun, and they’re definitely eye-catching, but...

Why Budgie Smugglers?

August 10, 2026Paddy Haynes
I know what you’re thinking… Budgie smugglers and strongmen? Those two worlds should definitely not mix. But we disagree. Yes, they’re a bit of fun, and they’re definitely eye-catching, but...
Should I Hire a Strength Coach?

July 31, 2026Paddy Haynes
Hiring a coach can be an absolute game changer—but do you actually need one? What are the benefits of coaching, when is the right time to take the plunge, and how...

Should I Hire a Strength Coach?

July 31, 2026Paddy Haynes
Hiring a coach can be an absolute game changer—but do you actually need one? What are the benefits of coaching, when is the right time to take the plunge, and how...
Building a Merchandise Brand: Is It Easy?

July 24, 2026Paddy Haynes
When I first qualified for Britain’s Strongest Man in 2024, I had some purple T-shirts printed for my family and friends to wear in the crowd. I wanted them to...

Building a Merchandise Brand: Is It Easy?

July 24, 2026Paddy Haynes
When I first qualified for Britain’s Strongest Man in 2024, I had some purple T-shirts printed for my family and friends to wear in the crowd. I wanted them to...
What Do Smelling Salts Actually Do?

July 16, 2026Paddy Haynes
We get asked this all the time: What do smelling salts actually do? There's a whole host of theories behind using ammonia, or smelling salts as they're better known. Some athletes...

What Do Smelling Salts Actually Do?

July 16, 2026Paddy Haynes
We get asked this all the time: What do smelling salts actually do? There's a whole host of theories behind using ammonia, or smelling salts as they're better known. Some athletes...