Skipping Past the Odds: How Praveen Gupta Shattered World Record Training Barefoot
In a cramped rented flat in Mumbai, with no coach, no sponsors, and no fancy gym, 20-year-old Praveen Gupta quietly made history, training barefoot for 13 years to set a Guinness World Record in jump rope. Praveen began with judo mats in school and slowly transitioned into ropes, flips, and crosses, guided by the keen eye of a senior who saw his potential.Despite lacking facilities, he pursued excellence, slipping off his shoes so neighbors wouldn’t complain and setting a timer for 30 seconds, chasing perfection each day. His journey is a powerful reminder that even the most remarkable dreams can begin with the simplest tools: a rope, bare feet, and burning discipline.69 Crossovers, 30 Seconds, 13 Years: The Story of Praveen GuptaPraveen’s name rarely graces headlines, but his list of achievements does not need them. He has won more than 37 medals from over 15 competitions, golds at state and national levels, and a Guinness World Record for 69 crossovers, all without any support. After years of grinding, he was denied participation in national university games due to technicalities. The pandemic shut down his training, but not his spirit.His world shrank to his living room, where he continued training, sometimes without shoes, sometimes without light, but never without hope. Watching YouTube videos of Japanese and Chinese athletes frame-by-frame became his coaching. Through it all, his friend Yash and his school coach Kiran Raja stood witness to his silent dedication.The Rope, The Record & The Relentless DreamIn November 2024, the world finally caught a glimpse of his brilliance, as he entered the Guinness Book with his record-setting performance. Despite holding India’s highest scores, he couldn’t afford to compete in the 2024 Asian Championship or the 2025 World Championship due to lack of funds. “I had the highest score in India but missed the chance because I couldn’t gather Rs 50,000,” he shares.The sport, removed from India’s recognized list since 2017, receives little to no government backing. But Praveen continues skipping, training, and hoping. His dream? To break Cen Xiaolin’s world record of 105 double under in 30 seconds. His personal best is 104, just one jump short. That “one jump” now defines his every breath as he battles physical limitations and societal indifference.Fueled by Purpose, Waiting for a PushPraveen’s journey is more than an athlete’s struggle; it’s a human story of passion outpacing privilege. His barefoot training speaks not of lack, but of determination. From cold morning runs to practicing for five hours every night in silence, his life is a symphony of sacrifice. And still, he finds joy in friendships, in discipline, and in guiding younger athletes who now look up to him. “Jump rope has taught me that progress comes through pain,” he says.As he juggles job hunts and dreams of next year’s Asian Championship, what Praveen Gupta needs now isn’t just applause but action. Sponsors, organizations, and changemakers, this is your call. Because when you support Praveen Gupta, you become the reason another unsung Indian athlete rises.Reach out: guptapraveen736@gmail.comCall/WhatsApp: +91 87888 66138Let’s not let talent go unseen. Let’s help him take the biggest jump he can!