Planking, or the lying down game, has increased in popularity among people of all ages on the Internet. The idea is to lie as stiff as a board on a public surface of your choice, snap a picture and share it with friends and other plankers. The more daring and creative the planking platform—or lack thereof—the better.
Although planking is meant to be fun, it can be a very dangerous stunt especially when coupled with alcohol, extreme bravery and the need for an adrenaline rush. Unfortunately, a young man in Australia, Acton Beale, met his death because he tried planking on a balcony and fell while trying to take his picture.
According to Couriermail, "The phenomenon has come into the spotlight after a 20-year-old planker from Brisbane was charged by police in Gladstone for attempting the 'ultimate plank' – lying across a police car."
Photo Credits: Planking Australia Facebook
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Social Media Challenges
- Opportunity to create new and safe challenges for social media users
- Online Gaming Communities
- Develop interactive and safe virtual gaming spaces for planking enthusiasts
- Outdoor Adventures
- Incorporating technology in outdoor adventures for safer and memorable experiences
Where This Applies
- Social Media
- Online social media platforms for new trends in viral challenges
- Gaming
- Online gaming websites targeting planking enthusiasts
- Adventure Tourism
- Outdoor adventure companies that incorporate technology to ensure safe and memorable experiences
