Get Planking! The Rise of Creative Travel Photos While in a Plank Pose

The Rise of Plank Travel Photos

In recent years, travel photos featuring people doing planks in unique locations have become increasingly popular on social media. The plank travel photo trend involves posing in a full plank position while visiting famous landmarks or picturesque destinations. Some refer to it as the "travel plank challenge."

So why are these quirky planking photos taking over travel feeds on platforms like Instagram? There are a few reasons behind the uplifting trend.

Showcasing Strength and Fitness

Planking requires core strength, endurance and balance. The ability to hold a plank position while suspended atop a mountain cliff or alongside an iconic building shows impressive physical fitness. Plank photos allow travelers to highlight their athletic abilities in stunning backdrops that capture the imagination.

In a world filled with breathtaking travel imagery, the plank photo offers a way for people to stand out and showcase the hard work they've put into sculpting a strong, healthy body.

Awareness of Wellness

Travel plank photos also tap into the growing wellness movement that emphasizes holistic health, mindfulness and being active. Planking while enjoying new destinations promotes the idea of staying fit while still having fun. It fuses travel's sense of adventure with an awareness of taking care of your body.

Rather than indulging in relaxation and leisure while on vacation, plankers make wellness a priority even when exploring far-flung locales. The photos inspire others to maintain their exercise routines and stay committed to their fitness goals wherever their travels take them.

Unique Perspective

Many iconic landmarks and tourist spots have been photographed from every conceivable angle. Plank travel shots offer a completely fresh point of view on familiar sites. By capturing a location from new low-to-the-ground perspectives, the photos give viewers a sense of rediscovery.

Getting into a plank pose also allows travelers to interact with and immerse themselves in settings in an original manner. The unusual angles and body positions add creativity and whimsy to scenic vistas that have been photographed countless times before.

Social Media Engagement

Travel plank photos are perfectly suited to capture attention and spark curiosity on visually-driven social platforms. Their novelty draws viewers' eyes in while providing an intriguing puzzle to solve as audiences try to guess the location. The photos' candidness gives them an approachable, human quality as well.

By blending physical fitness with travel in a visually arresting way, plankers win likes and comments that elude more formulaic travel shots. The interactive nature of guessing the photo location also boosts user engagement.

Where Are the Top Plank Travel Photo Spots?

Certain destinations seem tailor-made for the plank travel photo craze. Here are some of the top places around the world where you can get your plank on:

Great Wall of China

This ancient fortification stretching thousands of miles across China offers countless scenic spots for elevated planks. Pose atop watchtowers and stone parapets overlooking the winding wall. Just watch your balance!

Machu Picchu

Perched within the Peruvian Andes, these ancient Incan ruins feature plenty of epic plank potential. Try suspending yourself between the huge stone walls and terraces.

Trolltunga

Trolltunga or "Troll's Tongue" is a breathtaking rock formation jutting out over a lake in Norway. Planking on the tip of the tongue makes for literally elevated travel shots.

Ancient Ruins

Ancient sites from Greece to Mexico offer photo possibilities limited only by your imagination and planking prowess. Pose atop half-crumbled columns, weathered walls, pyramid temples and more.

Beaches

What better place to practice your planking than sandy shores lapped by blue waters? Try timing your pose for when waves rush up around you.

Tips for Pulling Off the Perfect Travel Plank Photo

Executing an epic planking travel photo takes some preparation and finesse. Follow these tips to nail that jaw-dropping shot:

Choose destinations with solid, flat surfaces. Avoid slippery, angled or unstable footing.

Pack minimal gear. Hauling a heavy backpack throws off balance and positioning.

Have a friend serve as your photographer so you can concentrate on plank form.

Consider bringing yoga mats or pads to provide cushioning on hard surfaces.

Know your limits. Don't risk unsafe spots without proper precautions and permits.

Use landmarks, leading lines and foreground elements to create dynamic, dimensional compositions.

Play with perspective. Shoot from above, below and panoramic angles.

Time planks for optimal lighting at sunrise, sunset or blue hour for magical colors.

Release your inner yogi. Take a breath to steady yourself before locking into perfect plank position.

Spread Positivity While Planking Responsibly

As the travel plank phenomenon continues gaining steam, remember to be safe, respectful and mindful during your adventures. With a little creativity and preparation, you can nail epic share-worthy photos while spreading positivity and inspiration.

Now grab your passport, pack your mat and get ready to plank your way across the globe! Just be sure not to topple any ancient artifacts in the process.

FAQs

Why are plank travel photos so popular?

Plank travel photos allow people to showcase strength and fitness while visiting exciting destinations. The unusual perspective and creativity make the photos stand out on social media.

What are some top destinations for travel plank photos?

Some top spots for travel plank photos include the Great Wall of China, Machu Picchu, ancient ruins, beaches, and natural rock formations like Norway's Trolltunga.

What tips help capture an epic plank travel photo?

Tips include choosing solid flat surfaces, traveling light, using a photographer partner, bringing yoga mats, watching your limits, using leading lines, playing with perspective, and timing for ideal lighting.

Is planking at landmarks disrespectful?

It's important to be respectful of fragile or protected sites. Avoid unsafe stunts without proper precautions and permits. Practice mindfulness when planking responsibly.

What are some plank travel photo ideas?

Get creative with locations! Plank atop cliffs, on mountaintops, across iconic bridges, between columns, on top of retaining walls, across beaches, in tree poses, amid street art, and more!