Dan Galanto, a Grand Rapids resident, has made his mark in the Guinness World Records with an extraordinary achievement that blends strength, balance, and a bit of unicycling flair. In September, Galanto set two new world records: one for the heaviest single barbell press on a unicycle, lifting 93.71 kilograms (206.6 pounds), and another for the heaviest single dumbbell press at 35.42 kilograms (78.1 pounds), also performed while balancing on a unicycle.
These impressive feats of strength and balance surpassed the previous record held by Jason Auld of Scotland, who had lifted a 149.9-pound barbell atop a unicycle, earning him a spot in the Guinness World Records 2023 book. Auld’s record, which inspired Galanto to take on this challenge, was a catalyst for Galanto’s decision to attempt something equally, if not more, daring.
Galanto, who moved to Grand Rapids from Chicago last summer with his wife, said he was inspired by Auld’s appearance on various shows showcasing his unicycle feats. “He was on a few shows doing that feat, and I thought this was just ridiculous enough to give a try,” Galanto recalled.
While many would shy away from such a daunting task, Galanto has been an avid weightlifter for over 20 years and has spent nearly as many years riding unicycles. However, this was his first foray into combining both passions in a competitive setting. Lifting over 200 pounds is an impressive feat on its own, but balancing on one wheel while doing so adds a completely different layer of difficulty.
To prepare for the record-setting lifts, Galanto had to carefully practice balancing on the unicycle while lifting progressively heavier weights. “Because the barbell weighed so much, any small deviation in where I put it had a massive effect on where the unicycle wanted to go,” he explained. This unique challenge required precision and constant practice to develop the necessary coordination and control.
Galanto trained like any serious athlete, but his approach to this unusual skill was also a bit unorthodox. “It was a lot of getting used to, but it was just practicing the lift and building up the weight, kind of like how you would do on your own two feet,” he said.
Despite his incredible record, Galanto doesn’t consider himself a professional unicyclist or weightlifter. In fact, he enjoys practicing various party tricks, such as juggling, fire breathing, and making balloon animals. As a self-described “network clown,” Galanto brings fun and excitement to unconventional hobbies.
He has also offered unicycle lessons in both Chicago and Grand Rapids, making his unique skills accessible to others. The classes are free to join, and Galanto hopes they encourage people to explore alternative hobbies. “It would be nice to promote some novelty or alternative hobbies,” he said. “People mention stuff like this is crazy or dangerous, and they’re probably right, but at the same time, there are a fair amount of safety precautions you can take.”
Galanto’s world-record accomplishments haven’t dulled his appetite for more challenges. He is now considering future world records, including the fastest 100-meter car push and the highest pole vault—both, naturally, while riding a unicycle. “If I can get some space on a track to push a car and if I can get someone to let me use their pole-vaulting mats, I would like to try those, but who knows,” Galanto mused.
For now, he’s basking in the glory of his Guinness World Records achievements and looking forward to more unicycling adventures.
Galanto’s unicycle lessons in Grand Rapids continue to grow in popularity. Those interested in learning the skill can join free classes, and for more information, people can follow the Grand Rapids One Wheelers on Facebook. Whether it’s balancing on a unicycle or lifting heavy weights, Galanto’s accomplishments prove that with enough determination and practice, even the most improbable feats can become reality.
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