What is Planking?

Official Definition

Planking is the intricate art of lying face-down in a plank position (refer to new-comers guide to planking) in unusual public spaces, judged by the level of difficulty, creativity, location and technique involved in the plank.

Planking Background

Planking began at the 2011 Australian swimming championships when finalist Kris “Plank” Taylor, planked off the blocks in the final of the men’s 100m Freestyle. After recording his 89th 50.30 for the year, (breaking the all-time record held by Johans Voight of Germany) he “planked” it on the scoreboard as a salute to all his supporters. Some say his plank was more impressive and more memorable than his record.

Planking started to gain popularity in Europe and Japan where it was known as the lying down game. The term ‘Planking’ was coined in Australia where it became an internet meme in 2011.

David “Wolfman” Williams (NRL player) did this after a try during the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles vs Newcastle Knights game on the 27th of March 2011. He went on to talk about it on The Footy Show where Williams described it as “Pretty much active lying down”.

The Planking Australia group on Facebook is supporting 25 May as annual planking day to encourage new and group planking. On 13 May 2011 a 20 year old male from Gladstone central Queensland was charged for allegedly planking on a police vehicle.
Planking is believed to become the next extreme sport to be available at the Olympics level of competition.