Gaining Plank-spiration from a 58-year-old World Record Holder
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  1. Gaining Plank-spiration from a 58-year-old World Record Holder

    DonnaJean Wilde, a 58-year-old retired educator, made headlines recently when she set a world record for abdominal planking by a woman.

    She received official recognition from the Guinness World Record folks for holding a plank for 4 hours, 30 minutes, and 11 seconds in Magrath, a town in Alberta, Canada. That was 10 minutes longer than the previous record, set in 2019, Guinness says on its website.

    “The challenger’s forearms and toes must touch the ground at all times,” Guinness explains. “The remainder of the body must be lifted off the ground and be kept straight throughout.”

    Wilde says she has long suffered chronic pain in her hands and arms. She came to love planking after she broke her wrist and was limited in her activities.

    During training, she would read, watch movies – and even complete the work to earn a master’s degree, Guinness says.

    You can watch a video on DonnaJean’s achievement on YouTube.

    The male record is held by former Marine George Hood, who planked for 8 hours, 15 minutes, and 15 seconds at age 62 a few years ago.

    Even very fit people will struggle to hold a plank for more than a few minutes. Good news: You don’t have to! The plank is great for core training, posture, gait, balance, and more. It can be done anywhere and has many variations.

    After reclaiming his title, George told the media, “Anyone can do what I do. Everybody has to start somewhere.”

    The Plank 101

    It’s safe for people over 50 – as DonnaJean and George prove. “This is probably the best exercise you’ll ever do,” AARP blogger Barbara Hannah Grufferman wrote. Research shows the benefits of regular planking.

    It helps your midsection without the strain of crunches. It works more than just the abs; it targets the entire core, which wraps around us and stabilizes our bodies while doing everyday tasks. Stability and balance are essential for functional fitness.

    When you’re in the plank position, you work almost every muscle in your body. The focus is on the core and abs, but you’re also using your legs, arms, and back to stay in place.

    We’re happy to show you in person, but here’s the basic idea. Start by lying face down on an exercise mat. Keep the elbows close to your sides, the palms facing down, and the fingers facing forward. Lift up, keep your body straight, and put your weight on your elbows and feet. 

    Engage those core muscles and hold on.

    Aim for 30 seconds at first. Rest a minute. To start, try three rounds of that a few times a week. You’ll be amazed at how fast you advance.

    Motivation for Everyone

    Let DonnaJean and George serve as inspiration, regardless of your goals.

    “Keep trying and keep practicing,” she told Guinness. “I actually still can’t believe it. It feels like a dream.”

    Dreams come true at any age. Come see us today, and let’s bring yours to life.

    In our 21-Day Longevity and Strength Program, we’ll work together to make sure you’re not just “going through the motions” to hit your goals but that you’re living a life that aligns with your values. Sign up here: https://go.ypbtrainingstudio.com/21-day-longevity-and-strength-program.


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(361) 857-5087 info@ypbtrainingstudio.com