A clippy situation: American man breaks record by covering body in dozens of binder clips

Catching your finger between a binder clip can put in you quite a pinch – yet for some, it’s their path to breaking a long-awaited Guinness World Records title.

At least, that was the case for Robert Frederick (USA), who claimed this spine-tingling title on 25 April for the most binder clips clipped on the body. Braving the sting, Robert stood strong as a friend attached a record-breaking total of 58 clips to his body – the final product looking vaguely like a porcupine, covered in binder quills. 

“I have always thought having an official Guinness World Records title would be the coolest thing ever!” he said, no doubt thrilled that he finally accomplished it.

Despite the pain, Robert said that he was determined to take on the title for his own personal achievement – though he did have a few helping hands assisting him. 

Accompanied by his friends Nicholas Milsap and Matthew Alguinaldo, the trio went to the Lt. Erick Loyd Memorial Park in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA on a Saturday to attempt the record.

Read more stories about record-breaking bodily stunts in our dedicated Human Body section!

Using standard binder clips that he purchased from Amazon, Robert abided by Guinness World Records guidelines that he use a commonly-found item for his attempt – in this case, two 48-packs of one-inch (2.5 cm) black clips. 

And finally, when they found a perfect spot near some park benches to set-up, Robert began preparing his body (and mind) for a few minutes of record-breaking pain.

Starting with his forearm, Robert’s witnesses began attaching clips all down his frame, completing the arms before moving down to the tougher spots near his legs. Dressed in a T-shirt and shorts, the volunteers had ample space to work with – and Robert kept a stoic face as they repeatedly pinched his skin. 

In fact, the one time he let out a laugh was when they started attaching the fasteners to his feet.

Soon enough, his body was covered in dozens of prickly clips, and the trio had even attracted a small crowd of kids and parents who watched him complete the attempt.

Once all 58 clips were attached, he turned to look at his video camera with a wince on his face – clearly uncomfortable, but nonetheless a new Guinness World Records title holder!

Perhaps now would be the best time to mention that there are less painful records that Robert could’ve attempted, such as the most spoons balanced on the body (96) or the most clothes pegs clipped on a face and neck (116).

Yet his bravery led to this memorable record-breaking moment, so credit where credit’s due – congratulations, Robert, you are now Officially Amazing!