40 Times People Did Something So Impressive, You’ll Want To Clap From Behind Your Screen
Life can sometimes feel like a roller coaster ride, but every now and then, we come across moments that make us pause, gasp, and say, “Wow.”
These are the times when people push the limits of what we thought was possible, showing off their skills, courage, or sheer determination. It could be a random act of bravery, an incredible talent, or just pure heartwarming kindness that reminds us that, yes, the world can still be awe-inspiring.
This collection of photos is brought to you by the incredible subreddit r/HumansAreMetal, a place dedicated to showcasing human strength, creativity, and unyielding spirit. Grumpy Sharks proudly presents 40 moments from that subreddit that will leave you clapping from behind your screen. Grab some popcorn, sit back, and prepare to be amazed.
#1. Brave kid
Source: WasOnceANormie
#2. Glen Raines ran the Boston marathon barefoot wearing a loincloth
Source: Rusty_Crank
#3. Shoutout to this madlad
Source: jelly_ni-
#4. Grandpa vs. Neo-Nazi
Source: Reddit User
#5. Little person. Big heart.
Source: mer_sault
These heart-stopping, jaw-dropping, and often hilarious photos were all sourced from r/HumansAreMetal, a vibrant community with over a million members.
The subreddit celebrates the people who do extraordinary things, no matter how big or small. Whether it’s an athlete performing at their peak, someone showing unbelievable strength, or a regular person going above and beyond to help someone in need, this community highlights those remarkable moments.
From extreme feats of physical endurance to creative displays of art, r/HumansAreMetal gives us a front-row seat to the best of human effort and achievement. If you’re not already following this community, you’re missing out on a regular dose of motivation and wonder.
#6. A 9 year old boy from Yemen rescued a fox from a well that was 3 to 4 floors deep without any insurance ropes
Source: Reddit User
#7. This dude traveling with his parents, but they can’t move so they must be carried by him.
Source: WaSSuP532
#8. I am not in danger. I am the danger.
Source: nicbrit93
#9. Terry Fox
Source: one_loop
#10. Unfazed earthquake survivor
Source: s-multicellular
Have you ever watched someone do something so remarkable that you had to pause for a second to wrap your head around it? Maybe you’ve seen a gymnast do a double backflip with ease, or someone pulling off a trick shot that seemed straight out of a movie.
These moments—whether they’re hilarious, daring, or downright impressive—stick with you. They make you realize that people are capable of so much more than we often give credit for. Just like these moments captured in the photos, there’s always something incredible to learn from the persistence and effort people put into what they do.
Some moments are so impressive, they make you want to stand up and cheer—even if you’re alone in your room!
#11. “When you take your Master’s Degree back home to the uncle that helped you survived the walk from Ethiopia to Sudan in 1991”
Source: donebeenforgotten
#12. This is awesome
Source: Master1718
#13. Rising from the dead
Source: memezzer
#14. A child was born among the rubble. Life despite everything
Source: sarlvolgal
#15. When you have to protect your baby from a hail storm
Source: PostAbove
I’ll never forget the first time I saw a skateboarder do a 360 flip. It was in my local park, and there was this kid, probably no older than 14, who landed it flawlessly.
He wasn’t a pro, just someone enjoying the ride, but the way he did it was like watching a seasoned skater. It wasn’t just the trick that impressed me—it was the confidence and the dedication. Watching him, I was struck by how simple joy and passion for a hobby can lead to such impressive feats.
That day, I couldn’t help but feel inspired, and the memory stuck with me. It’s not about big achievements every time; sometimes, it’s the small things that take your breath away.
#16. Memory 💯
Source: My_Memes_Will_Cure_U
#17. His life continued to rise after the Titanic sunk
Source: bislut997
#18. Wow
Source: Master1718
#19. Celebrities can be metal
Source: MrAnonymousR
#20. The man who planted an entire forest!
Source: mrsharmaaaa
Did you know that seeing impressive feats, whether it’s someone running a marathon or playing an instrument like a pro, can trigger the release of dopamine in our brain?
According to a study by the National Institute of Health, when we witness something amazing, our brain rewards us with feelings of pleasure and satisfaction. In other words, it’s like we’re living vicariously through their achievements. This release of dopamine makes us feel inspired, motivated, and even more capable ourselves.
So next time you watch someone pull off something extraordinary, don’t just sit there in awe—take that positive energy and turn it into something meaningful in your own life.
#21. That must have taken some planning
Source: Master1718
#22. Rita Marley, Natty Dread!
Source: Reddit User
#23. Turkish baby saved after 130 hours under rubble
Source: norcraim
#24. Doctors performing a successful heart surgery in the dark in Lviv, Ukraine
Source: PatatasFrittas
#25. Parapelgic Ortho Surgeon
Source: Reddit User
Have you ever experienced that rush of pride when watching someone else do something amazing? That feeling of “If they can do it, maybe I can too” is deeply rooted in psychology. Psychologists call it “vicarious achievement,” where witnessing someone else’s success feels almost like a win for us too.
It’s a form of social bonding, and it helps reinforce the idea that we, as humans, are connected by our shared experiences of challenge and growth.
These powerful moments remind us that, while we may be struggling with our own obstacles, there’s a whole world of people out there conquering challenges just like us—sometimes in ways we never thought possible.
#26. Jessica Cox is the world’s first licensed armless pilot, as well as the first armless black-belt in the American Taekwondo Association. She was born without arms due to a rare birth defect.
Source: Reddit User
#27. Major Dhyan Chand of India, who refused Hitler
Source: crosspostninja
#28. Yusra Mardini. Who said Gen Z weren’t badass??
Source: Reddit User
#29. May be an unconventional post here but the doctor who discovered the cause of stomach ulcers was metal as f**k
Source: SeriesOfAdjectives
#30. Incredible talent and dedication
Source: Yetero93
In today’s world, we tend to focus a lot on competition. Whether it’s in sports, business, or personal growth, we often see achievement as a race. But looking at these inspiring moments from r/HumansAreMetal, we see that achievement doesn’t always come with a medal or a trophy. Sometimes, it’s a quiet moment of self-improvement, a creative expression, or even an act of kindness.
These acts of greatness remind us that achievement is relative—it’s not just about winning, but about pushing your own limits, no matter how big or small. The changing cultural narrative now celebrates perseverance, creativity, and self-expression as much as competitive victories.
#31. The Surgeon Who Operated on Himself
Source: rafa4maniac
#32. A boy in Bangladesh risked his life when he jumped into a flood-swollen river to save a fawn from drowning. The boy, Belal, disappeared and onlookers feared the worst — until he resurfaced, holding the tiny fawn safe above his head. Belal’s heroism was noticed by an photographer who took this shot.
Source: apple-_-boi
#33. At 14 years old, she became the youngest person ever to complete the ‘polar hat-trick’. I pity those a-holes who tried to undermine her, they should think where were they at 14.
Source: cynic1996
#34. Sir Christopher Lee
Source: shadow2087
#35. Leiliane, Brazilian Wonder Woman
Source: ShockedAesthetics
As Dr. Angela Duckworth, a psychologist and researcher, has said, “Grit is passion and perseverance for very long-term goals.” This sentiment rings true when looking at these photos. What we see in these images isn’t just talent—it’s the culmination of countless hours of practice, effort, and persistence.
Whether it’s learning a new skill, overcoming fear, or helping others, the ability to keep going in the face of difficulty is something that connects all of us. As Duckworth’s research suggests, grit is one of the strongest predictors of success, and these photos showcase it beautifully.
#36. In 1992, John Thompson was home alone when he had both his arms ripped off in a farming accident. However he still managed to get up and dial for help by holding a pencil in his mouth. He survived and both his arms were reattached.
Source: serwiesqw
#37. Actress Audrey Hepburn, living in Nazi occupied Netherlands in WWII and suffering malnutrition, raised funds for the Dutch resistance by dancing in underground concerts
Source: usefulyoyo
#38. Firefighters in Ukraine are dealing with radioactive fires in Chernobyl exclusion zone. Mad respect to this brave guys!
Source: MAXM3D
Every time we see someone pull off something incredible, it inspires us. We remember that we, too, are capable of greatness. Whether it’s small or large, personal or public, these feats push us to be better versions of ourselves. If you’ve found yourself in awe of these moments, why not channel that energy into your own pursuits?
Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. Who knows? Maybe your next big “wow” moment is just around the corner.
#39. Theresa Kachindamoto saving the children
Source: bislut997
#40. Can we all please appreciate this. Rest in peace.
Source: bilalH03
Let’s be honest—most of us wouldn’t survive five minutes in some of the situations these legends handled with ease. Whether it’s a firefighter running into danger, an athlete pushing past the pain, or someone just showing massive moral strength when no one’s watching—these humans are, indeed, metal.
It’s not just the physical feats that impress—it’s the grit, the kindness under pressure, the refusal to give up when everything screams quit.
If one of these moments lit a fire under you (or just made you whisper “wow”), share it. Tag that friend who needs a dose of motivation or who already is that everyday badass in your life.
Because sometimes, all it takes is seeing one person go all-in to remind you: you can too.
