Westside Barbell is akin to imagining the Hell’s Angels swapping their motorcycles for weightlifting equipment and chalk. It brings together some of the most formidable and intimidating individuals on the planet. The vibe within its concrete walls has been likened to a prison yard gym. The allure includes brawls and profanity, along with tattoos and facial hair. The harsh environment quickly takes a toll on those who are easily offended. At Westside, it’s a relentless battle for dominance every day. This intense atmosphere has led to over 140 world records, but one must question if the pain is a fair trade-off. When the weights are heavy enough to be lethal, how far would you push yourself for a record?