Athlete Sets New World Record for Longest Plank
A 61-year-old athlete set a new world record by holding a plank for over five hours at the Huntsman World Senior Games.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Running
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DonnaJean Wilde, 61, has set a new world record for the longest abdominal plank, maintaining the position for five hours, three minutes, and 28 seconds. The accomplishment occurred during the Huntsman World Senior Games.
Why it matters
This record highlights how a consistent, low-impact exercise habit can evolve from basic injury rehabilitation into a long-term strategy for physical endurance. It showcases the potential for core-strengthening routines to be adapted and sustained over over a decade.
The new world record of five hours, three minutes, and 28 seconds surpasses the previous mark of four hours, 30 minutes, and 11 seconds. The precise biological limits of maintaining this isometric hold for such an extended duration remain an area of study.
The players
DonnaJean Wilde
A 61-year-old athlete and author who maintains a rigorous core-strengthening regimen.
Huntsman World Senior Games
An international athletic competition for senior athletes held annually in Utah.
The details
A plank requires the athlete to maintain a rigid body position with only the forearms and toes in contact with the ground, creating constant isometric tension in the core musculature. This posture engages the rectus abdominis, obliques, and transverse abdominis to stabilize the spine against gravity. Consistent practice of this movement can help improve core strength and endurance, though most training programs suggest much shorter, repetitive intervals for general fitness.
Timeline
2013: DonnaJean Wilde began planking after breaking her wrist.
2024: DonnaJean Wilde set a previous world planking record.
2025: DonnaJean Wilde published her book.
October 2026: DonnaJean Wilde broke the world record.
Health Landscape
This performance exists at the extreme end of the spectrum for isometric endurance training. It contrasts with the American College of Sports Medicine's (ACSM) physical activity guidelines for older adults, which prioritize moderate-intensity muscle-strengthening activities.
While this world record illustrates high-level endurance, most adults looking to improve core strength should start with shorter, manageable durations that prioritize proper form. If you are starting a new core routine, discuss appropriate progression and injury prevention strategies with your doctor.
The takeaway
Consistent core training can serve as a sustainable habit for long-term physical activity, even beginning as a recovery exercise. Focus on maintaining steady, neutral spinal alignment during your own planks, and consult with a fitness professional to ensure your routine matches your fitness goals.
Further reading
Learn more about building endurance and core stability in the Running section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chatelaine.
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