Meet the 80-Year-Old Plank Champion Who Holds the Secret to Staying Fit

Fitness experts often suggest that individuals should aim to hold a plank for a duration of 20 seconds to two minutes, depending on their age and fitness level. However, Bob Schwartz, an 80-year-old resident of Florida, has shattered this expectation by achieving an astonishing plank duration of 50 minutes, significantly exceeding the average recommendation for his age group.

This remarkable achievement took place at the Ocean Reef Fitness Club in Key Largo, where Schwartz’s impressive plank performance earned him the title of “The Plankster.”

Luis Bracamonte, the director of fitness and wellness at the club, witnessed Schwartz’s incredible feat. He remarked that Schwartz’s record-breaking achievement represents the longest plank ever held by an individual aged 80. Bracamonte expressed admiration, stating, “Mr. Schwartz is an extraordinary individual and a perfect example of a ‘super-ager.’”

The Plank Explained

A plank is an isometric exercise in which a person holds a push-up position for a set period of time. It is not only an effective abdominal workout but also strengthens various muscle groups, including the arms, legs, chest, and back. As such, it serves as an excellent alternative to conventional sit-ups and crunches.

From Local Contest to Record Holder

Schwartz’s journey into the world of planking began in 2016 during a friendly competition initiated by Bracamonte. The challenge encouraged club members to complete a four-minute plank to win a complimentary smoothie. Schwartz exceeded expectations by maintaining a plank position for over 10 minutes, securing his victory.

Reflecting on his initial planking experience, Schwartz admitted, “Prior to that, one minute was probably my max, although by this time, my core was in pretty decent shape.” This initial victory sparked his determination to improve further.

A Journey to New Heights

As Schwartz continued to enhance his planking abilities, he engaged in extensive research on the subject. To his surprise, he discovered that his plank time far surpassed existing records for his age group. “The over-80 record has been 15:03 since 2019, and the over-70 record was 38 minutes,” he noted proudly.

Attempting to formalize his achievement, Schwartz applied to Guinness World Records but learned that they do not recognize records based on age groups. Undeterred, he embraced the digital age, opting to record his plank and share it online, claiming the title until someone else surpasses it.

Fitness Becomes a Family Affair

The enthusiasm for planking quickly became a family tradition. Schwartz’s seven-year-old grandson has joined him in participating in plank challenges. This generational connection underscores Schwartz’s commitment to fitness, encouraging younger family members to adopt healthy habits.

“A plank can be performed at home, without equipment, and within a short time frame,” Schwartz mentioned, emphasizing its accessibility as a full-body workout.

Overcoming Obstacles Through Exercise

Interestingly, Schwartz did not embrace fitness until he turned 62. For many years, he battled chronic back pain, only to discover the therapeutic power of exercise as a means of alleviating his discomfort.

“Since I’ve been doing core exercises, I have never had a back issue,” he stated, marking a significant improvement in his overall well-being. He began his fitness journey with a core and cycle class, gradually incorporating strength training and daily walks of three miles.

“When I strength-train, I push myself as hard as I can. Many exercise sets end in muscle failure,