📣 For more lifestyle news, click here to join our WhatsApp Channel and also follow us on Instagram
DonnaJean Wilde, a 59-year-old Canadian grandmother, has done the unthinkable. She performed 1,575 pushups in 60 minutes to break the Guinness World Record and was awarded the feat for doing the most pushups in one hour (female) category.
Interestingly, this is her second title after March this year, when she held an abdominal plank position (female) for 4 hr 30 min and 11 seconds.
The site noted that the condition for making the record included that each pushup required a 90-degree elbow flexion at the bottom of the pushup and full arm extension when pushing up. It added that she surpassed the previous pushup record title with 17 minutes left.
“I believe that if we stay active and have health and wellness goals, we can age gracefully and powerfully,” said DonnaJean.
While you may not be eyeing a record, let’s decode what preparation could go behind incredible attempts like these.
“Building the strength and endurance to perform 1,575 pushups in an hour, as demonstrated by the record-breaking grandmother, requires a blend of physical fitness, discipline, and a structured approach,” said Dr Ravikumar Mukartihal, consultant, orthopedic and joint replacement surgeon, SPARSH Hospital, Infantry Road.
Here’s what it takes:
Dr Mukartihal shared:
Consistent training: A rigorous and consistent training program is essential. Start with a manageable number of pushups daily and gradually increase the count. Incorporate timed sets to build endurance over time.
Focus on technique: Perfecting form is essential to avoid injury and maximise efficiency. Proper body alignment ensures that each pushup is effective and counts toward your goal.
Strength and conditioning: Complement pushups with exercises that build overall upper body strength, such as planks, chest presses, and tricep dips. Core stability and wrist strength are also vital.
Endurance building: Cardiovascular fitness is key to sustaining energy for extended periods. “Incorporate aerobic exercises like running or cycling to improve stamina,” said Dr Mukartihal.
Nutrition and recovery: A protein-rich diet supports muscle repair, while adequate hydration and sleep are essential for recovery.
Mental resilience: Breaking records requires mental toughness. Visualisation techniques, meditation, and a determined mindset help push through physical fatigue.
With dedication and proper preparation, building such remarkable strength is achievable at any age, said Dr Mukartihal.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.