Proving age is no barrier to determination, fitness, and record-breaking feats, a 74-year-old man from the United States has etched his name into the Guinness World Records by becoming the oldest person to hold a handstand.
Paul Budline, aged 74 years and 145 days, achieved the record by maintaining a handstand for the required minimum of 15 seconds. His remarkable performance surpassed the previous record-holder by nearly four years, showcasing not only his physical strength but also decades of unwavering dedication to fitness.
Budline’s passion for handstands began in his teenage years and continued well into adulthood. His fitness regimen—comprised of aerobics, cycling, weight training, and daily handstand drills—kept him in peak form. Even during setbacks, including the COVID-19 lockdowns and a major hip surgery at the age of 70, Budline’s discipline never waned.
“The surgery left me unable to lift my legs beyond 45 degrees,” Budline told Guinness World Records. “It seemed hopeless at age 70, but I was determined to keep trying every day and eventually got it back.”
Inspired by learning that the previous record-holder was slightly over 70, Budline set his sights on the record. He focused on rebuilding his strength and balance, a process that eventually led to his official attempt and successful entry into the record books.
Reflecting on the achievement, Budline noted, “The satisfaction is actually immense, partly because I’m 6 ft 2 in and 185 lbs, not exactly ideal dimensions for any sort of gymnastic effort.”
Now a Guinness World Record holder, Budline isn’t done yet. With no signs of shoulder pain or physical complications, he plans to continue his handstand practice for as long as possible. “I’ll keep doing it for as long as I possibly can,” he said.
Paul Budline’s inspiring journey is a testament to the power of persistence and a reminder that it’s consistency—not age—that defines our limits.
