An Illinois man made history last week when he set a new world record for the most number of squats in 24 hours, a whopping 26,100.

Tony Piraino of Decatur, Illinois, began his daring record attempt at 5 a.m. on April 5th and ended it at the same time on April 6th. He set out to do 26,000 squats during that 24-hour interval, thus beating the world record set by Joe Reverdes of Rhode Island in 2020 by 1,000 squats. To ensure that he had the stamina and energy to fulfill his goal, Piraino took 30-second breaks every 22 squats and made sure to take a few longer breaks throughout the day. He also made sure to have plenty of energy drinks and snacks rich in carbohydrates, and despite telling reporters that he was getting tired halfway through the attempt, he managed to beat his own expectations.

By 5 a.m. on April 6th, Tony Piraino had not only beaten the previous record of 25,000 squats but also his own set goal of 26,000 squats by 100. His record still has to be verified by Guinness World Records, but the Illinois athlete is confident his attempt will be certified.

Piraino told local reporters that he was inspired by athlete David Hoggins, who set a world record in 2013 by doing 4,030 pull-ups in 17 hours and 45 minutes. He has since read Goggins’ book, Can’t Hurt Me, and decided to push himself to the limit.

 

For more impressive world records, check out this performance for “highest musical note by a male,” and the world’s loudest noise whistle.