Skip to main content
Come Fan with UsSaturday, June 20, 2026

The Mountain’s training regimen involves running around the countryside with his tiny dog

James Dator
James Dator has been covering a wide range of sports for SB Nation for over a decade, with a special focus on the NFL.

The most cardio I've done in years!!#TimeForPizza #Asterix&Obelix @asterix_astrikur

A video posted by Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson (@thorbjornsson) on

Important steps to becoming Hafþór “The Mountain” Björnsson.

Step 1: Be born with the genetics that make you a literal giant.

This is probably a deal breaker for 99.9 percent of us, but if you are blessed with the genes that have already made you giant then you’re in luck. Read on.

Step 2: Buy a tiny dog and name it something adorable.

This step is much easier than No.1. In Björnsson’s case he has a Pomeranian named “Asterix,” which by extension makes him Obelix -- and that’s perfect. If you’re unfamiliar with these references click here.

Step 3: Run around a place that looks suspiciously like Westeros, preferably with a landscape your dog blends into.

It’s difficult to quantify precisely why this helps the process, but it seems to work for The Mountain, so who are we to argue? Added bonus: From far away it looks like you’re running around the countryside holding one of those invisible dog leashes you get at the fair.

Step 4: Muscle (and dog) confusion.

Run small lengths, quickly turning and changing your stride wherever possible. You want you muscles to be kept on their toes, and your dog utterly befuddled on what you’re going to do next.

Step 5: PIZZA TIME
See More:

More in Lookit

Lookit
The 2023 cheese rolling champion face-planted, got a concussion, and regrets nothingThe 2023 cheese rolling champion face-planted, got a concussion, and regrets nothing
Lookit

Cheese rolling remains the stupidest, most dangerous sport in the world.

By James Dator
Lookit
There’s a ‘Mighty Ducks’ reboot TV show, and Emilio Estevez is backThere’s a ‘Mighty Ducks’ reboot TV show, and Emilio Estevez is back
Lookit
19 of the most absurd sports photos of the decade19 of the most absurd sports photos of the decade
Lookit

So many memes and funny sports moments to choose from!

By SB Nation Staff
Lookit
The history of the Turkey Leg Award, Thanksgiving’s best traditionThe history of the Turkey Leg Award, Thanksgiving’s best tradition
Lookit

Praise John Madden.

By Jessica Smetana
Lookit
17 sports Halloween costumes ideas for 201917 sports Halloween costumes ideas for 2019
Lookit

Your friends will be saying: “I wish I’d thought of that!”

By SB Nation Staff
Lookit
The ‘Bottle Cap Challenge’ is the newest sport for celebrities, and I’m here for itThe ‘Bottle Cap Challenge’ is the newest sport for celebrities, and I’m here for it
Lookit

Who knew John Mayer had kicking skills?

By James Dator