Breaking Barriers
Breaking Barriers, Building Futures
“Breaking Barriers has always been more than breaking boards; more than world records. Breaking Barriers has been brought together to recognize and bring a voice to the challenges children face on a daily basis.
It is a creative application that opens the hearts and minds of children and invites them to explore unlimited possibilities life has to offer when they have the courage to acknowledge and break through the challenges they are facing on a daily basis.”
- Leif Becker
Leif's Story
Leif Becker is a globally recognized martial artist and one of the world’s top experts in breaking. Known for his exceptional breaking ability, he holds the world record for the Fastest Breaker, having shattered 487 boards in one minute with one hand. Leif regularly travels across the U.S. and internationally, working with martial artists of all ages and skill levels, inspiring them to reach their fullest potential.
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In 1996, Leif earned his Black Belt in Tang Soo Do, and in 1998, he founded Southbury Karate Academy in Connecticut. His quest for excellence led him to pursue a world record, a journey that began in 2003. Over the next several years, Leif refined his skills and mindset to perform on some of the country’s biggest stages. His path took him from Connecticut to New York City, where he appeared on The David Letterman Show, and eventually to Hollywood, California. On July 30, 2005, he set the world record for breaking 487 boards in one minute with one hand at Universal Studios in Hollywood.
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Since achieving world record status, Leif has shared his expertise in martial arts and peak performance training with both amateurs and professionals worldwide. He is now dedicated to helping children overcome their daily struggles, and teaches the mindset and discipline required to succeed at the highest levels.
