58-year-old DonnaJean Wilde from Alberta, Canada, made history by breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest time in an abdominal plank position. Ms. Wilde held the position for an incredible 4 hours and 30 minutes at the high school where she once served as vice principal before retiring.
Ms. Wilde’s journey with planking began 12 years ago when she broke her wrist and turned to the exercise as an alternative to running or lifting weights. She fell in love with planking because she could read and do other activities while holding the position. Her record-breaking time surpasses the previous one set by another Canadian, Dana Glowacka, in 2019.
During her world record-setting plank, Ms. Wilde faced physical challenges, such as pain in her elbows and quads, as well as the mental challenge of staying focused and maintaining her form for the entire duration. The first two hours went by quickly, but the last two were particularly difficult. She credited her success in the final half-hour to focusing on breathing, staying calm, and avoiding shaking.
Ms. Wilde’s dedication to planking is evident in her daily practice routine that includes up to three hours of planking every day and even training for six hours split into two three-hour blocks for the record attempt. Her determination to succeed propelled her to achieve this remarkable feat despite facing physical and mental strain throughout the process.
Ms. Wilde’s 12 grandchildren were present to cheer her on during the record-breaking attempt, serving as a source of motivation as she pushed through challenges.
In conclusion, DonnaJean Wilde is a true inspiration who has demonstrated that with dedication and perseverance anything is possible.
