Fitness influencer and trainer Mark Langowski, known on Instagram as @bodybymark, organized a pushup and plank competition in New York City. His goal was to motivate the public to move more and stay active. The event took place in Washington Square Park on May 12, in collaboration with Oikos yogurt. Participants competed for a $500 prize awarded to the male and female with the highest number of pushups or longest plank hold.
Encouraging Public Fitness
Langowski, who communicates with nearly two million Instagram followers, encourages sharing workout routines. He met many fit New Yorkers at his meet-up. “It’s a way to encourage strength and overall fitness in New York City and across the country,” he shared in an interview with Fox News Digital. Participants included a male winner who performed 111 pushups. Langowski’s vision was to inspire more people to get moving.
Attributes of a Good Competitor
Langowski noted three key characteristics of a great competitor: strength, humility, and confidence. He observed that the most successful participants did not boast about their abilities. They demonstrated humble confidence.
Fitness Basics
Pushups and planks serve as a “good general baseline” for assessing fitness levels, according to Langowski. Other basic exercises include pull-ups, squats, and endurance tasks such as running a mile. For those new to fitness, Langowski recommends starting with modified pushups on your knees or against a wall. Gradually, you can progress to standard pushups.
Practical Fitness Tips
Langowski advises starting small, without needing expensive gym equipment. “You don’t need an expensive gym membership to get in good shape,” he said, adding that many people work out effectively at home. He suggests starting with a simple walk, encouraging those new to exercise to seek support from friends or a trainer.
The Importance of Motivation
Langowski emphasized the importance of motivation. While it’s easy for someone like him to talk about fitness, he understands that many people may struggle with starting. “You’ve just got to get out there,” he stressed. He also reminded that alongside exercise, rest, protein intake, and a healthy diet are crucial for muscle growth and overall fitness.
Angelica Stabile is a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital.