86 push-ups, one breath: How a Haryana yoga teacher set a Guinness World Record

Kamal Kaloi, a yoga teacher from Haryana, has set a Guinness World Record for performing 86 underwater push-ups with a single breath. The 38-year-old, who has lived in Vietnam for over 13 years, achieved the feat last October after two years of dedicated training. Kamal's earlier accomplishments include breaking records for the most consecutive yoga positions underwater in 2020 and the most air rings blown underwater in September of that year.

Kaloi's training regimen combined callisthenics with breath-holding endurance, which he believes was crucial in overcoming the challenges of the underwater record attempt. The primary challenge, he admits, was not just physical strength but also maintaining calm and focus while controlling his breath underwater.

Despite facing moments of exhaustion and self-doubt, Kaloi remained determined, reminding himself of his goal every day. He attributes his success to the mental discipline and self-control he learned through yoga, which he began practicing since the age of eight. Kaloi's diet consists of a simple and balanced approach, avoiding junk food and focusing on eggs, roti, sabzi, chole, and chawal, along with some coffee during the day.

Kaloi's message to Gen Z and Gen Alpha is to believe in themselves, take on difficult challenges, and never stop learning, improving, and dreaming. He emphasizes the importance of respecting and taking care of one's body through regular exercise, yoga, proper nutrition, and a positive attitude.