Margot Robbie ‘crushed’ Ryan Gosling in the plank challenge, holding it for 4 minutes and 10 seconds without shaking her hands

When most fans think of Barbie, they think of pink dream houses, matching outfits, and the undeniable charisma of Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling. But behind the scenes of the hit film, something unexpected happened—Margot Robbie beat Ryan Gosling in a plank contest by over a minute.

It wasn’t just a fun challenge—it revealed how serious Robbie is about fitness, and exactly how she built the core strength to hold a 4-minute, 10-second plank without breaking form. And yes, even Ryan Gosling’s famously intense “Ken-ergy” couldn’t top her.

So, what exactly helped Robbie dominate one of the toughest bodyweight moves out there? And more importantly—how can you train like her?

Margot Robbie’s Plank Victory Was No Accident

The story behind Margot Robbie’s plank challenge win isn’t just a quirky behind-the-scenes anecdote. It’s a testament to smart, consistent training led by celebrity trainer David Higgins, who’s known for shaping Hollywood physiques in sustainable and balanced ways.

Higgins has worked with Robbie since 2015’s The Legend of Tarzan, but the training for Barbie was different. Instead of building superhero-level muscle, the focus was on feeling good, building control, and improving functional strength.

“Everyone was just up for a laugh and to feel good,” Higgins shared in a recent interview. “It wasn’t about aesthetics… Barbie was more about: let’s just feel good, and if you feel good, that’s going to translate on camera.”

How the Barbie Cast Trained

During filming in London, the Barbie cast maintained a structured routine—working out up to six days per week. There was a noticeable difference in how the Barbies and Kens trained:

• Barbies (including Margot Robbie): 4 days of Pilates, 2 days of strength training

• Kens (including Ryan Gosling, Simu Liu): 4 days of strength, 2 days of Pilates

Every strength training day ended the same way: with focused core work, often involving planks. By the end of filming, planking had become second nature to the cast—and competition naturally followed.

The Final Plank Challenge Results

So who held the longest plank in the Barbie crew? Here’s the leaderboard, as revealed by David Higgins:

• David Higgins (Trainer): 5:32

• Margot Robbie: 4:10

• Producer David Heyman: 4:01

• Ryan Gosling: 3:02

• Hari Nef (Dr. Barbie): 2:13

• Tom Ackerley (Robbie’s husband): 1:36

It’s worth noting that this cast wasn’t prepping for a Marvel-level fight scene. Their only “battle” in the film was a dreamy dance sequence. Yet they trained with dedication, consistency, and focus—especially when it came to core strength.

Why Planks Are the Ultimate Core Test

Planks may look simple, but they’re one of the most powerful bodyweight exercises you can do. The move doesn’t just target your abs—it engages the entire core, including:

• Transverse abdominis (deep core stabilizer)

• Obliques

• Rectus abdominis (the six-pack muscle)

• Shoulders

• Glutes

• Lower back

Proper form is key: elbows directly under shoulders, spine neutral, and hips aligned. When done right, a plank becomes a test of physical and mental endurance.

“People think it’s just about the abs,” said Higgins. “But a plank is about discipline, endurance, and focus. It’s one of the most revealing exercises out there.”

Margot Robbie’s Core Routine: The Secret to Her 4:10 Plank

So, what helped Margot Robbie hold a plank for over four minutes without breaking form?

Her core strength came from a balanced, progressive training routine. Here’s a breakdown of the core-building approach that helped Robbie beat Gosling and shine on-screen:

Train for Time, Not Reps

Robbie didn’t start at four minutes. Just like anyone else, she built up over time. If you’re starting out, Higgins recommends working up gradually:

• Beginner: 20–30 seconds

• Intermediate: 45–60 seconds

• Advanced: 90+ seconds

Try to add 10–15 seconds each week and focus on quality form above all.

Plank Variations Used in Training

To avoid burnout and build comprehensive strength, Robbie’s training included variations such as:

• Forearm planks

• Side planks

• Plank with shoulder taps

• Plank to push-up

• Stability ball planks (also known as “stir-the-pot”)

These variations increase difficulty and engage supporting muscle groups, improving stability and control.

Full-Body Strength Work Supports Core Training

Core strength doesn’t exist in a vacuum. The Barbie training plan included full-body strength exercises—especially targeting the back, shoulders, and glutes. A strong core is supported by a strong posterior chain.

The Power of Pilates

One of the most effective elements in Margot’s program was Pilates—a method focused on core engagement, flexibility, and muscle control. The Barbies trained in Pilates four times a week, which helped build deep core strength, improve posture, and increase endurance.

Making Core Training Fun and Social

One reason the cast stuck with their routine was the camaraderie. Training together created a sense of community, fun, and healthy competition.

Whether it was Gosling hitting the gym early or Robbie outlasting the crew in planks, the shared effort brought everyone closer—and likely made the workouts more enjoyable.

If you’re trying to build a similar habit, find a friend or group to join you. Challenge each other. Hold a “plank-off.” Making it social adds motivation and accountability.

Core Strength Is About More Than Abs

It’s easy to assume that training your core is just about getting visible abs. But real core strength supports everyday movement, reduces back pain, improves balance, and helps with activities ranging from sports to lifting groceries.

Ryan Gosling may have shown off a six-pack in Barbie, but Margot Robbie’s strength came from functional training, not flashy aesthetics.

This difference in endurance also shows that women can outperform men in many stamina-based exercises—especially those involving core stability and control.

Can’t Hold a 4-Minute Plank? You’re Still Kenough

Not everyone is going to match Margot Robbie’s 4:10 plank—and that’s okay.

Fitness is about progress, not perfection. The goal is to build strength, discipline, and consistency, just like the cast of Barbie did. Whether you’re at 30 seconds or three minutes, what matters is showing up and getting better every week.

And who knows? If you keep at it, you might surprise yourself—and your friends—in the next plank challenge.

Final Thoughts: What We Can Learn from Margot Robbie’s Core Strength

Margot Robbie beating Ryan Gosling in a plank contest is more than just a fun fact. It’s a reminder that:

• Core strength is about endurance, not just looks

• Consistent, full-body training builds real results

• Pilates and planks are a powerful combo

• Community and fun are key to long-term success

Whether you’re training for a role, a goal, or just to feel good in your body, take a cue from Margot: Stay committed, challenge yourself, and don’t forget to enjoy the process.

And the next time someone suggests a friendly plank contest—you just might win it.