In a statement released on Monday, January 26, Guinness World Records highlighted both the extraordinary endurance involved and the strong environmental message behind the record.
“A passionate environmental activist from Kenya is hoping to send a strong message about protecting the Earth after hugging a tree for three whole days. Truphena Muthoni has set the record for the longest marathon hugging a tree with an unbelievable total of 72 hours,” the statement read.
Record History
Guinness World Records outlined the evolution of the record, noting that it was first set in 2024 by Faith Patricia Ariokot of Uganda, who recorded 16 hours and 6 seconds. Later that year, Abdul Hakim Awal of Ghana extended it to 24 hours, 21 minutes and 4 seconds.
Muthoni first claimed the title in February 2025 with a time of 48 hours, before Frederick Boakye of Ghana briefly overtook the record with 50 hours, 2 minutes and 28 seconds. Muthoni then reclaimed and decisively extended the record with her 72-hour marathon.
Speaking after the confirmation, Muthoni said her first record attempt was symbolic, while the second represented a deeper commitment to environmental advocacy.
“The first attempt was a statement—a way to reintroduce humanity to the Earth through a simple, intimate act. The second attempt was a commitment,” she said.
“I realized the world needed more than symbolism. It needed endurance, consistency, and proof that care for the planet is not momentary. Climate action is a sustained responsibility.”
Muthoni also reflected on lessons learned from her initial attempt, admitting that her early preparation strategy posed health risks.
She explained that excessive strain during her first attempt affected her kidneys and increased the risk of complications.
For the second attempt, she adopted a more measured approach, focusing on hydration, calm preparation, and overall balance.
“I significantly increased my water intake in the weeks leading up to the challenge and prepared in a calm, confident way. This made a remarkable difference,” she said.
According to Muthoni, she experienced minimal physical fatigue during the marathon, with sleepiness being the main challenge.
“Endurance is not about deprivation or intensity, but about preparation, balance, and respecting the body’s limits,” she added.
The confirmation comes weeks after Muthoni dismissed claims suggesting her record attempt had been rejected by Guinness World Records.
“I significantly increased my water intake in the weeks leading up to the challenge and prepared in a calm, confident way. This made a remarkable difference,” she said.
According to Muthoni, she experienced minimal physical fatigue during the marathon, with sleepiness being the main challenge.
“Endurance is not about deprivation or intensity, but about preparation, balance, and respecting the body’s limits,” she added.
The confirmation comes weeks after Muthoni dismissed claims suggesting her record attempt had been rejected by Guinness World Records.
In December, she clarified that the verification process was still ongoing and that she remained in active communication with the organization.
She later shared correspondence from Guinness officials confirming that her application was active and awaiting final evidence submission.
With the confirmation now complete, Muthoni’s achievement stands as both a world record and a powerful call for sustained climate action.
She later shared correspondence from Guinness officials confirming that her application was active and awaiting final evidence submission.
With the confirmation now complete, Muthoni’s achievement stands as both a world record and a powerful call for sustained climate action.
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