[quote=@TheUnknowable]
what level of strength would this be at?  For example, imagine an Earth Wielder wanted t build a well in the desert by lifting .5 meter diameter cylindrical chunks of stone out of a hole repeatedly.  How long could they be?

That's just an idea for character development, that his dad built a well in the desert and it's how he practices to build his strength.
[/quote]

Physical strength is not as important as skill and experience! A 50 year old man who has been Wielding since he could walk will be much stronger than a 25 year old who has been Wielding for 5. So it really depends on the persons experience, skill, and a bit of physical strength mixed together. That answers your question, or did I completely deviate from it?