The iconic Guinness World Records 2023 book has just dropped, and it might include their most ambitious set of records yet. While the regular staples are included in the tome (world’s longest fingernails, world’s hairiest person, etc) Britain is leading the way in feats of strength and dexterity.

Karenjeet Kaur Bains has achieved the world record for most times to squat lift own body weight in one minute (female), with an astonishing 42 reps. Not only is Bains a champion powerlifter, but she is also the first Sikh woman to represent team GB in the sport.

The powerhouse of a sportswoman revealed she hopes to build a legacy that encourages more athletes from diverse and minority backgrounds to “shatter any perceived glass ceilings and make their mark in sports like Powerlifting”.

Bains isn’t representing the UK in the Guinness World Records 2023 book alone, however. Scottish star Jason Auld achieved the heaviest single weight lifted by barbell overhead while riding a unicycle… with a staggering 68KG. Just unbelievable.

Meanwhile, fellow Brit, Kimberly Lester, grabbed the gong for the most juggling catches with six objects in 30 seconds (using her hands and feet!)

Oddly enough, however, it isn’t just feats of strength the UK is excelling at. Our animals are also, apparently, world-leading.

Bertie, in Brasside, UK, achieved the “fastest tortoise” world record at an unfathomable 0.28 metre per second

In fact, there are a collection of weird and wonderful animals dotted around the globe who are now world record holders.

Incredible dogs, for example, like Belgian Keon who has the staggering award for longest tail on a dog (coming in at 76.8cm!). There’s also Japanese Purin, who caught 14 balls with her paws in a minute.

Guinness World Records’ editor-in-chief, Craig Glenday, has helped curate this year’s collection of winners. And, after 20 years of service, he certainly knows what he’s talking about.

He said: “We’ve sifted through nearly 40,000 record applications over the past year to bring you Guinness World Records 2023. People from all walks of life continue to be fascinated by extremes, and we’ve received claims from across the planet – indeed, even from space! This is why I’ve said the new edition is ‘Out of this World!'”

Guinness World Record 2023 is available now.