Beds RCC has been thrilled to celebrate an incredible achievement by one of our own. On Monday 19 January, Alex Goulding, one of our Community Wellbeing Champions, officially broke the Guinness World Record for the most plyometric push-ups completed in one minute – and not only did he break it, he obliterated the previous record of 11 with an astonishing 19 repetitions.
Alex dedicated his record attempt to raising awareness around mental health and wellbeing, shining a positive light on an issue that touches so many lives across Bedfordshire and beyond.
A Record with Real Purpose
Alex chose to attempt the record on āBlue Mondayā, 19 January, a day often associated with financial stress, post-holiday pressures, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), and unfortunately, higher suicide statistics. By turning this traditionally difficult day into one of achievement and action, Alex helped shift the narrative toward hope, resilience and the power of community support.
His message was simple but powerful: exercise can play a crucial role in protecting and improving mental wellbeing.
Thanks to his determination, and the generosity of supporters, weāve now reached Ā£2,000 in our mental health and wellbeing awareness fundraiser!
A Moment in the Spotlight
Alex was featured on BBC Look East, as well as BBC Beds, Herts & Bucks and other local media, sharing his journey, motivation and the importance of supporting mental health initiatives. It was wonderful to see Alexās efforts recognised across the region.
A Message from Alex
Following the event, Alex shared these words with all who supported him:
It was a great event. A big thank you to everybody at Guinness World Records, Better and GLL, and Beds RCC for making this event happen.
Weāve raised a great amount of money for health and wellbeing, which was the primary cause of yesterday. Itās focused on something positive on a day which is often associated with negativity. And I think we achieved that.
A Message from the Chief Executive
Amongst his remarks, Cliff Andrews, the Chief Executive of Beds RCC, had this to say about the achievement:
Beds RCC has been active in supporting individuals and communities in Bedfordshire for over 70 years and, in recent years, our health and wellbeing work has grown significantly.
Anyone who knows Alex knows that in addition to being almost impossibly lovely, he is passionate about supporting health and mental health, both through his work with us at Beds RCC and through his various fitness and exercise interests.
We are so grateful to you Alex for allowing Beds RCC to benefit from your endeavours – and we would encourage [people] to donate generously to enable us to do more of what Alex is passionate about – helping other people with their health and wellbeing.
Weāre immensely proud of Alex – not only for the record itself, but for the heart behind the effort. Thank you to everyone who donated, shared the message or cheered him on.
If you’d like to get involved with our work in mental health and wellbeing, please do get in touch. You’re always welcome and we’d love to hear from you.