80-Year-Old 'Plankster' Shatters Fitness Goals with 50-Minute Plank Record

In the sun-soaked fitness haven of Key Largo, Florida, 80-year-old Bob Schwartz has redefined what it means to age with vigor. Dubbed "The Plankster" by his local gym, Schwartz recently held a plank for an astonishing 50 minutes, a feat that obliterates the typical 20-second to two-minute recommendation for his age group. This isn’t just a personal triumph—it’s potentially the longest plank ever recorded for an octogenarian, according to Luis Bracamonte, fitness director at Ocean Reef Fitness Club.

The plank, a deceptively simple isometric exercise, engages the core, arms, legs, chest, and back. Schwartz’s journey to planking stardom began modestly in 2016, when a gym contest promised a free smoothie for a four-minute plank. He crushed it, holding steady for over 10 minutes. Since then, he’s pushed his limits, outpacing existing records for his age bracket, including a 15-minute mark for over-80s and a 38-minute record for over-70s. Without an official Guinness category for age-specific planks, Schwartz posted his video online, claiming the unofficial title until someone dares to challenge him.

What makes Schwartz’s story compelling isn’t just the numbers. He wasn’t always a fitness enthusiast. Chronic back pain plagued him until 2006, when, at 62, he stepped into a gym for the first time. Core exercises, cycling, and strength training transformed his life, eliminating his back issues. Now, he walks three miles daily, follows a healthy-ish diet—think fruits, veggies, fish, and minimal sugar—and takes no medications. His blood pressure? Unchanged since his teens. His weight? Within 10 pounds of his 18-year-old self.

Schwartz’s passion for fitness has even inspired his seven-year-old grandson to join him in plank challenges, turning exercise into a family affair. For those looking to follow his lead, he advises starting with a trainer to nail proper form and prioritizing balance to prevent falls, especially in older age. "A fall at my age can be devastating," he warns, recommending simple balance exercises like lifting one foot while standing in line.

As Schwartz looks to the future, his goal is simple: keep moving. Whether it’s maintaining his strength for his favorite activities or inspiring others to embrace fitness, The Plankster proves that age is no barrier to extraordinary achievements.