When it comes to feats of strength there isn’t much Mel Topinka hasn’t accomplished. The Whitewood, Saskatchewan native has been lifting weights since he was 12 years old in 1974. The 59 year old construction worker continues to impress and practice his craft daily. He also continues to set records.
Most recently back in November 2020 he set a world record in the class 5 (50 and over) 87 kilogram class (190 lbs) bench press competition. Topinka bench pressed 440 lbs. in addition to this world record, Topinka still holds a record for doing 92 push-ups in one minute.
Topinka has a daily routine that he does four-five times a week. He gets up at 5 then does push-ups. After that he has a protein or two then a workout. This helps keep Topinka in shape. He encourages everyone to live a healthy lifestyle and to quote Hulk Hogan, “take your vitamins, say your prayers.”
When Topinka began weightlifting in 1974 Vasily Alekseyev from the Soviet Union had won Olympic gold in 1972 and Arnold Schwarzenegger was dominating the Mr.Olympia competition. Another person who inspires him is Canadian Lewis Cyr, the Canadian strongman from the 1800’s who is known as the strongest man who ever lived. These three men inspired Topinka and made him want to do his best.
Topinka lives in Regina but he frequently returns to Whitewood to visit his parents. Topinka is proof that no matter where you come from, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to.
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By: Travis Longman