In a remarkable display of physical and mental endurance, an Egyptian free diver has plunged into the record books. Ramy Abdelhamid has officially been awarded the Guinness World Records title for the most pull ups under open water with one breath (male) after completing a staggering 33 repetitions beneath the surface of the Red Sea.
The record-breaking feat took place on August 2, 2024, in Dahab, South Sinai, a popular diving destination. Abdelhamid, 36, free-dove to a depth of 9 meters (29 ft 6 in) to a securely anchored pull-up bar. While many might assume the buoyancy of the water would make the pull-ups easier, Abdelhamid revealed that the real challenge was a different kind of resistance.
“A lot of people will think it’s easy because you’re pulling yourself up under water, the buoyancy will help you, which is true,” he told Guinness World Records. “But the challenge was actually pushing myself back down. I’m resisting the water and I’m doing this on a single breath at a depth of 9 meters.”
An advanced free diver and former lifeguard, Abdelhamid undertook the challenge as a personal goal and to inspire youth to get involved in sports. He also aimed to highlight the natural beauty of the Red Sea and promote diving tourism in his home country.
His record is a testament to the power of human dedication, showcasing a unique blend of extreme athleticism and specialized free-diving skill. By pushing his body to its limits, Ramy Abdelhamid has not only secured a place in history but has also provided a powerful example of what is possible when one combines a passion for sports with a fearless spirit.