Mike Aidala’s Epic World Record: A Feat of Strength, Resilience, and Purpose

On February 3rd, strength athlete and performance mindset coach Mike Aidala made history by setting a new world record for the heaviest single repetition Turkish Get-Up—an astonishing 255 lbs (115.6 kg)! This incredible lift, performed with a single arm while transitioning from lying flat on the ground to standing tall, was a true testament to Mike’s physical strength, mental fortitude, and dedication to a greater cause.

The BUBS Naturals team had the privilege of attending this record-setting event, and witnessing Mike’s incredible effort firsthand was nothing short of inspiring.

More Than a Record—A Mission for Mental Health

Mike’s world record attempt wasn’t just about pushing the limits of human performance—it was a mission to raise awareness for veteran mental health and suicide prevention.

Growing up, Mike experienced firsthand the impact of mental health struggles when his grandfather, a military veteran, took his own life. That loss shaped him in profound ways, some of which he didn’t fully understand until much later. With his record-setting attempt, Mike partnered with Mission 22, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting veterans through mental health research and suicide prevention initiatives.

“I have often used strength training as an outlet for working through some of my life’s struggles,” Mike shared. “I know I cannot control the outside world, but I can control my effort. Over time, I developed a positive relationship with myself and my inner voice—one that has been forged by years of pushing my mind and body.”

Through his record attempt, Mike hoped to symbolize the resilience required to stand back up when life feels overwhelming.

The Symbolism of the Turkish Get-Up

The Turkish Get-Up is one of the most demanding full-body movements in strength training. It requires precise coordination, core stability, and full-body strength to keep a weight balanced overhead while moving through seven distinct phases—from lying flat on the ground to standing tall.

For Mike, the movement represents the ups and downs of life.

“There are times when it feels like the weight of the world is holding us down. But to persevere, we have to work through that stress and rise back up,” Mike said. “There is a lot of shame surrounding mental and emotional pain, but I hope this challenge serves as a symbol for people to stand up tall and get the support they need.”

A Legacy of Strength and Coaching

Mike Aidala is no stranger to pushing the limits of human potential. With over 15 years of experience as a performance mindset coach, he has worked with NFL athletes, A-list celebrities, U.S. ambassadors, and Fortune 500 executives to help them achieve their highest potential.

As the founder of The Offense, Mike specializes in tailored coaching programs that drive transformative personal and professional growth. His expertise has been featured in Men’s Health, GQ, Men’s Journal, Muscle & Fitness, and Well+Good, solidifying his reputation as a leader in his field.

Beyond coaching, Mike’s personal athletic achievements are nothing short of legendary. He holds world records for feats like:

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  A 315-pound single-arm overhead squat

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  The heaviest Turkish Get-Up ever recorded

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  Stand-up paddleboarding 80 miles from the Bahamas to Florida

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  Completing over 20 ultramarathons

Witnessing Greatness

BUBS Naturals has always been about pushing limits, honoring legacy, and supporting peak performance, so being present for Mike’s record-breaking event was a truly special experience. Watching him lift 255 lbs in a Turkish Get-Up—something most people couldn’t even deadlift—was jaw-dropping.

His strength was impressive, but what stood out even more was his commitment to using his platform to inspire change.

At BUBS, we believe in giving back and supporting those who serve. If Mike’s journey inspires you and want to support veteran mental health initiatives, consider donating to Mission 22 or the Glen Doherty Memorial Foundation and helping provide resources for those who need it most.

Mike Aidala didn’t just set a world record—he set an example of resilience, purpose, and strength in the face of adversity.