Born in Sao Gabriel in southern Brazil, Laureano, who is also a professional mixed martial arts fighter, said he was driven by a promise made to his niece, Rebeca.
“I don’t know when I’ll get to see them,” Laureano said about his family members he hasn’t met since moving to Singapore in May 2019.
“It is the only thing I can do to help, using my athleticism.”
Laureano had originally aimed for 1,000 burpees, but fell short of his target due to a leg injury sustained two days before the attempt. He had trained for about nine months before setting the record.
The previous world record was held by Nick Anapolsky, who performed 879 chest-to-ground burpees in an hour earlier this year.
With his feat, Laureano hopes to set an example for everyone blessed to be born with healthy hearts. He also said he wants to inspire people to lead healthier lifestyles and muster the discipline needed to achieve their goals, especially amid the pandemic.
“It’s one of the toughest single exercises you can perform. It would not be fun if it was not the hardest.
“I could choose jumping jacks but it’s so easy. It has to be something that challenges you to become something better.”
Reuters
Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package. 