How did Hercules defeat the giant Antaeus during his journey connected with the golden apples?

Hercules defeated Antaeus by lifting him off the ground and crushing him.

Antaeus was a giant in Libya who challenged travelers to wrestling contests. His strength came from contact with Earth, his mother, so every time he fell he could renew his power by touching the ground.

Hercules recognized this source of strength and changed tactics. Instead of trying to overpower Antaeus while he remained grounded, Hercules raised him into the air and held him there until the giant died.

The episode is usually placed during Hercules’ journey to obtain the golden apples of the Hesperides. It is not itself one of the twelve labors in the standard list, but it is a famous supporting adventure associated with the eleventh labor. This distinction helps separate Antaeus from Atlas, whom Hercules also encountered on that journey.