In an extraordinary display of endurance and determination, 25-year-old Under Armour athlete Seena Akbary has set a new benchmark in the fitness world. On January 24, 2022, at Dubai’s Kite Beach, Akbary completed 2,022 devil presses using 20kg dumbbells in 9 hours and 32 minutes, aiming to spotlight the importance of mental and physical health.
The Challenge: A Test of Mind and Body
The devil press is a demanding exercise that combines chest-to-floor dumbbell burpees with double dumbbell snatches. This full-body movement requires explosive power, muscular endurance, strength, coordination, balance, and top-tier cardiovascular fitness. Akbary described the challenge as more of a mental battle than a physical one, emphasizing the comprehensive strain it places on every muscle and system in the body.
A Personal Mission for Global Awareness
For Akbary, this feat was deeply personal. “This was something I wanted to do for a long time. It’s exhausting, and my body needs complete rest for a week now,” he shared. His motivation stemmed from a desire to raise awareness about the intertwined nature of mental and physical health, demonstrating that with the right mindset, individuals can overcome formidable challenges.
Community Support: The Driving Force
Beginning his challenge at 7:30 AM, Akbary streamed the event live on his social media platforms. The response was overwhelming, with numerous Dubai residents flocking to Kite Beach to offer their support. “Wow… It was the most magical part. I cannot thank my family, friends, and Dubai residents more. They were just incredible in supporting me,” Akbary expressed, highlighting the community’s role in his achievement.
Building Resilience Through Past Challenges
This isn’t Akbary’s first venture into extreme fitness challenges. During Ramadan in 2021, he undertook a tire-flipping challenge, working from suhoor to iftar while fasting. Reflecting on that experience, he noted, “Half-way through, I encountered a lot of mental and emotional distress, but I completed the challenge by pushing my limits.” Such endeavors have been instrumental in fortifying his mental resilience.
Advocating for Health and Wellness
Beyond personal achievements, Akbary is passionate about encouraging others to prioritize their health. “There is no particular date or time to start exercising. It’s now,” he urged. He recommends setting small, attainable goals and integrating fitness into one’s core values, making it a non-negotiable part of daily life.
Dubai’s Commitment to Fitness
Akbary also praised Dubai’s initiatives to promote fitness among its residents. “Dubai gives a lot of importance to fitness. They are building running tracks, fitness zones at public places, cycling tracks, and whatnot, and it’s completely free to use,” he observed. Such infrastructure reflects the city’s dedication to fostering a health-conscious community.
Inspiration for All
Seena Akbary’s accomplishment serves as a powerful testament to human potential and the strength of the human spirit. His journey underscores the importance of mental fortitude, community support, and the relentless pursuit of personal goals. As he continues to break barriers, Akbary remains a beacon of inspiration for individuals worldwide, demonstrating that with determination and resilience, any challenge can be overcome.
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