Incredible 80-year-old sets world record by holding plank for 50 minutes

IOL News

24-06-2025

Bob Schwartz can hold a plank for 50 minutes.
Image: Screenshot / TikTok
While most people in their 80s are taking it easy, Bob Schwartz is setting records.
The Florida-based grandfather recently stunned people at the Ocean Reef Fitness Club in Key Largo by holding a plank for an incredible 50 minutes, which is believed to be a world record for his age group.
At a time when fitness experts say adults should aim to hold a plank for 20 seconds to two minutes, depending on their age and fitness level, Schwartz has surpassed that, holding his position 100 times longer than the average goal for his age.
Luis Bracamonte, director of fitness and wellness at the club, was there to witness the record-setting moment.
'To our knowledge, after extensive searching, it is the longest plank ever held by an 80-year-old,' he told Fox News Digital.
'Mr. Schwartz is an extraordinary individual and a perfect example of a 'super-ager.''
The plank is a simple but highly effective isometric exercise, where you hold your body in a push-up position for a period of time.
While it's best known for targeting the core, it also engages the arms, legs, chest, and back, making it one of the best full-body moves you can do without any equipment.
The plank can be done anywhere and doesn't need any equipment.
Image: shurkin_son / Freepik
Schwartz wasn't always this fit. In fact, he didn't step into a gym until age 62.
Suffering from chronic back pain, he discovered that strengthening his core brought lasting relief.
'Since I've been doing core exercises, I've never had a back issue,' he told Fox News Digital.
It all started in 2016 when Bracamonte set up a club contest: hold a four-minute plank and win a smoothie. Schwartz crushed it, lasting over 10 minutes.
From there, he began researching plank records and realised his times were already surpassing existing benchmarks for his age group.
The over-80 record stood at 15 minutes and 3 seconds, and the over-70 record was 38 minutes, but Schwartz wanted more.
Though Guinness World Records doesn't recognise planking records by age group, that didn't stop him.
'In this internet age, you just post a video of your accomplishment and claim the title until somebody beats you,' he said. And that's exactly what he did.
If you're inspired to give planking a try, start small. Experts suggest 20 to 30 seconds for beginners, working up to two minutes as you build strength and endurance.
To avoid injury and ensure proper form, especially for older adults, Schwartz recommends consulting a trainer when beginning an exercise routine.
'The hardest part is just making the commitment and sticking with it until it becomes a habit,' he said.
As mentioned earlier, being able to do the plank has many benefits.
Here's why you should incorporate this simple exercise into your routine. Strengthens your core: Planks target multiple core muscles, including the obliques, lower back muscles and transverse abdominis.
Reduces the risk of back pain: By strengthening your spine and abdominal muscles, planks help reduce stress on your lower back.
Improves posture: Holding your body in a straight line during a plank trains you to maintain good posture.
Enhances flexibility: Side planks and forearm planks stretch and engage muscles around your shoulders, collarbone, hamstrings, and even your arches and toes, improving your overall mobility and flexibility.
Boosts metabolism: Planks work several major muscle groups at once, which burns more calories than traditional ab exercises like crunches, especially helpful if held for longer durations.
Improves balance and coordination: Since planks require you to stabilise your body, they train your nervous system to stay balanced. This translates into better movement, especially in sports or daily activities.
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