Watch Powerlifter Chris Duffin Become the First Person to Squat and Deadlift Over 1,000 Pounds for Reps (2024)

Powerlifter and strength expert Chris Duffin wasn't going to let anything—even a global pandemic—stop him from achieving what no other human has done (to our knowledge): squat and deadlift over 1,000 pounds for multiple reps.

Duffin successfully completed three reps at 1,001 pounds as four guys spotted him at Kabuki Strength Lab in Clackamas, Oregon.

After finishing his third squat rep and racking the weight, Duffin broke down in tears—which were well-warranted as he completed this awesome feat. While the event wasn't sanctioned, Duffin is likely the first person ever to both squat and deadlift over 1,000 pounds, according to BarBend.

Duffin was set to complete his Grand Goals challenge at an IHRSA event in San Diego over the weekend, but the meet was cancelled due to the coronavirus. Still, he was determined to finish his mission, which has been four years in the making after another impressive feat of strength. Duffin first sumo deadlifted 1,001 pounds for two reps back in 2016.

Since then, we've also seen strongman Hafthor Björnsson pull over 1,000 pounds for reps—and mistakenly claim that he was the first in the world to do so—but he hasn't squatted for reps, too.

Duffin's emotion at completing his goal is evident even in his Instagram caption, especially considering the peculiar challenge of completing it during such a tumultuous time.

"1001 x 3 squat today. Despite all the uncertainty in the world and our lives right now, I set out on a clear and defined path 4 years ago. A path to do something epic, to inspire, and to raise money and build awareness for causes I believe in. It was a major battle for me in the last year to pull off the last portion of this goal," he wrote in part of his Instagram caption.

And though Duffin acknowledges his record wasn't 'official,' he's pretty damn proud.

"Words can’t accurately convey how challenging this training was mentally, physically, or emotionally...but I can say I’m proud to have finished things on my own terms. Yeah, it’s not recorded in any record books anywhere, but I don’t give a rat’s ass... my goal was to be the first person to deadlift and squat 1000+lbs for reps. I did it, and no one can take that away. DONE," he wrote.