How Competitive Eaters Down Dozens of Hot Dogs

Today, the Nathan’s Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest, a beloved Independence Day tradition in the U.S., will see titans of competitive eating go head-to-head.

Most participants are passionate amateurs rather than professionals. They often prepare by stretching their stomachs with large quantities of food or liquid. One technique used is the Solomon Method — named after King Solomon — which involves snapping a hot dog in half before eating it. Ultimately, much of the challenge boils down to willpower. The body naturally resists consuming excessive amounts of food, so the drive to overcome that instinct must come from within.