BEIJING, CHINA (Reuters) - Lights. Camera. Plank. It's showtime in Beijing where retired Marine officer George Hood is facing off against Chinese policeman Mao Weidong in a planking competition.

Hood holds the current Guinness World Record at five hours, 15 minutes and 15 seconds set last year.

This year Hood set a new record, but it wasn't enough to beat his competitor. He relinquished at 7 hours, 4 minutes and 5 seconds.

"Absolutely a genuine gift, my personal best, so long I've never... thought I would have to go. But he is up against the best. Too many respects for this man. I mean it, truly," said George Hood, former planking world record holder.

Mao held on for almost another hour, celebrating his new world record with a set of push-ups.

He credits his occupation as a policeman for his strength.

"Actually, as Special Weapons And Tactics police, we have lots of strength training everyday. I think the strength training is very helpful for doing planking," said Mao.

Mao's new record now stands at eight hours, 1 minute and 1 second.