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Guru Rawal, a badminton coach at Saurashtra University in Rajkot, lifts 20-kg dumbbells underwater, enhancing lung capacity, stamina, and flexibility through aquatic workouts
Guru Rawal’s journey into this unconventional training began modestly, with underwater breath-holding exercises. (News18 Hindi)
You’ve likely seen fitness enthusiasts pumping iron at the gym or pushing their limits in boot camps, but what Guru Rawal of Rajkot, Gujarat, has done turns conventional workouts on their head, literally underwater. In a feat that’s baffling fitness experts and captivating the internet, Rawal, a badminton coach at Saurashtra University, has been lifting 20-kg dumbbells, under nine feet of water.
Far from a social media gimmick, his aquatic workouts are the result of a year-long disciplined regimen, combining breath control, muscle training, and innovative thinking. While most choose mirrors and machines for their gains, Rawal chose a swimming pool.
Rawal’s journey into this unconventional training began modestly, with underwater breath-holding exercises. Over time, he mastered techniques like “bubbling” to increase his ability to remain submerged. Once confident in his lung capacity and comfort underwater, he escalated his routine, introducing resistance workouts with 20-kg dumbbells in the pool’s deep end.
Today, Rawal performs full-minute biceps, triceps, and shoulder sets submerged under nine feet of water, a feat that demands both physical endurance and mental fortitude.
Why Train In Water?
Beyond its visual spectacle, Rawal’s aquatic workout comes with serious physiological advantages. Water provides natural resistance while minimising joint impact. According to him, this not only strengthens muscles but also enhances lung capacity and boosts stamina. “Water evenly distributes pressure across the body,” Rawal explained, “which improves flexibility and reduces injury risk compared to traditional gym workouts.”
Medical experts often recommend water-based exercises for rehabilitation or low-impact strength training. What Rawal has done is take that concept to the extreme, and succeeded.
Rawal’s story is not just about lifting weights; it’s about lifting the boundaries of fitness philosophy. His endeavour proves that innovation, perseverance, and the courage to challenge norms can redefine what’s possible in physical training. Inspiration lies not in where you train but how you think, Rawal said. The pool isn’t just waterl; it’s resistance, challenge, and calm all at once, he further explained.
His aquatic training has not only inspired athletes across Gujarat but has also ignited discussions among fitness communities across the country.
- Location :
Rajkot, India, India
- First Published:
