The new year has brought extraordinary achievements to Bedford, as local mental health coach and fitness trainer Alex Goulding demonstrates that dedication and perseverance can create truly inspiring results.

Alex has already reclaimed his Guinness World Record for "Most push up to planks in one minute," pushing the benchmark to an impressive 84 repetitions after Georgia's Irakli Rostomashvili had briefly held the title with 79. The journey back to the top wasn't easy, but it showcases Alex's commitment to excellence and his resilient spirit.

"After my previous record being broken, I had to sit down and plan how I could get an extra eight as a minimum," Alex explains with evident pride. "It took months of playing around with and multiple failed attempts in training. In November, something clicked and my gameplan, which was completely different to my gameplan when I held the record previously, worked."

The December record attempt proved successful, beating the previous mark by five. But Alex isn't stopping there. On January 19th—known as Blue Monday—he's attempting yet another world record at Robinson Pool and Fitness Centre for the most plyometric push-ups in one minute.

What makes Alex's achievements even more meaningful is the purpose behind them. He's using his athletic pursuits to shine a light on mental health awareness, particularly during a challenging time of year when many people struggle with financial pressures, anxieties, and Seasonal Affective Disorder.

"The attempt is about raising awareness of mental health, and the crucial role exercise can play, particularly at a challenging time of year for many people," Alex shares warmly.

His efforts also highlight the important work of his employer, Beds Rural Communities Charity, which delivers vital health and wellbeing initiatives across the county. Supporters can sponsor Alex's record attempts, turning athletic achievement into charitable impact.

Alex's success story is also helping launch the 2026 Sport Foundation Awards by GLL, the company operating Bedford's sport and leisure facilities under the Better brand. These grants support up-and-coming athletes throughout the town. Last year alone, 28 Bedford athletes, including Alex, benefited from this program.

"GLL has supported me significantly in both the organisation of this event and my training over the past two years," Alex acknowledges gratefully. "As a GSF athlete, I've been able to use Better facilities across the borough, as well as access mental health and physiotherapy support, vital educational resources and a life coach. The scheme is absolutely fantastic."

Now in its 18th year, the GSF Awards 2026 programme is offering a record £2 million in grants and benefits across the country. Applications are open until February 20, 2026, offering aspiring athletes the same opportunities that have helped Alex achieve his remarkable success.

GLL Community Sports Manager Aaron Colbert celebrates the programme's impact: "Our GSF Awards provide a lifeline to individual athletes while inspiring other young people in local communities."

Alex Goulding's story reminds us all that with determination, community support, and the right resources, we can achieve extraordinary things while making a positive difference in the lives of others.