It was a guys’ night out about three weeks ago when LSU sophomore linebacker D.J. Welter, sophomore center Cameron Fordham and another football teammate decided to first participate in a new, growing Internet craze. The three started “planking” on a barbeque grill outside the apartments by VooDoo BBQ & Grill.
“I was kind of scared at first, but then I remembered how I used to jump off houses when I was younger,” said Welter. “Nothing can compare to fail.”
An individual needs to be dedicated and focused when planning a plank. Form and technique play an important role, but Fordham said personal “drive and tenacity” are key to success.
The lying down game originated in 2000 in Britain. According to BBC News, the earliest plankers were Gary Clarkson and Christian Langdon. They began planking in public places and were photographed. Their craft was eventually dubbed the “lying down ones.”
Planking is also incorporated in relaxing exercises like yoga and pilates as the locus position, which is a core-strengthening pose focusing on the gluteus and lower back.
“When you’re in a position like that, it teaches you how to still your mind,” said Jake Blanton, yoga instructor. “If you can still your mind, you have control and discipline over your