UPDATE: A video of socialist NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani struggling with a 135-pound bench press has gone viral, igniting a flurry of reactions from political pundits and social media users alike. The incident occurred at the annual Men’s Day open streets event in Brooklyn last weekend, where Mamdani required full support from a spotter to lift the weight.
This unexpected moment has drawn sharp commentary from experts, including Dr. Chad Teague, a chiropractor for NFL and NBA athletes. “If you’re not able to hit that, it’s like a slap to your manhood,” Teague said in an interview with Fox News Digital, emphasizing the significance of proper technique in weightlifting.
Dr. Teague’s remarks struck a chord, as he noted, “I think Biden could probably lift more than that. I think that Trump could lift more than Mamdani, for sure.” His insights come from years of experience treating professional athletes and highlight the importance of fitness even in political arenas.
The video showcases Mamdani’s improper technique, with his feet lifting off the ground as he attempted the lift. “That’s a pretty good sign of struggle,” Teague pointed out, stressing the need for stability and core engagement during such exercises.
Political figures have also chimed in. New York City Mayor Eric Adams mocked Mamdani on social media, dubbing him “Mamscrawny.” Former Governor Andrew Cuomo added, “This guy can’t bench his own body weight, let alone carry the weight of leading the most important city in the world.”
Teague advised Mamdani to improve his workout regimen to avoid injury and enhance his performance. He recommended beginning with basic exercises to correct form, as bench pressing 135 pounds should be a standard warm-up weight for most men in midlife. “Usually, most people aren’t getting spots at 135,” he said, underscoring the need for foundational strength.
For those looking to replicate Mamdani’s experience, Dr. Teague suggests starting with a thorough warm-up, incorporating movements like push-ups and rotator cuff exercises. “You want to have your feet grounded on the ground,” he explained, noting that proper form is critical for gym-goers of all levels.
The response to Mamdani’s bench press failure reflects broader themes in fitness and politics, highlighting the expectations placed on public figures. As this story continues to circulate on social media, it raises questions about the intersection of physical ability and political leadership.
As the fallout from this incident unfolds, observers will be keen to see how Mamdani addresses the criticism and whether he takes Dr. Teague’s advice to heart. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
