DonnaJean Wilde, a grandmother and retired educator, has set a new Guinness World Record for the longest female abdominal plank.
With an impressive display of strength and determination, DonnaJean held a plank for an astonishing 4 hours, 30 minutes, and 11 seconds. If you're wondering what constitutes a plank, Guinness World Records says that the challenger’s forearms and toes must touch the ground at all times. The remainder of the body must be lifted off the ground and be kept straight throughout.
DonnaJean's journey to this remarkable achievement began 12 years ago when she faced a setback due to a broken wrist, preventing her from running or weight training with a cast. In search of an alternative fitness routine, she discovered planking and quickly incorporated it into her daily regimen.
Practicing planks for 2-3 hours every day, DonnaJean's stamina and endurance gradually increased over time. Reflecting on the gruelling challenge, DonnaJean admitted, “The last hour was the most challenging, just to stay focused and keep my form."
Drawing inspiration from her 12 grandchildren, who were present to witness her remarkable feat, as well as the enthusiastic support from a large audience of school students, DonnaJean expressed her overwhelming emotions upon achieving this milestone.
"I actually still can’t believe it," DonnaJean said. "It feels like a dream."