I'm sure you're sick of hearing about the economic slump by now, and I won't go on about it or anything except to say this: If you're using it as an excuse to not get fit, don't. You might think that you need a membership to a fancy gym or expensive fitness equipment to get in shape, but in all honesty, the best exercises are the ones you can do for free. Like the plank.

The plank is excellent for working your core muscles, and even though you're not moving, it's more effective than a sit-up. And it only takes a few minutes of your time. Take a hint from the folks at Sister Skinny and do the plank during the commercials while you're watching TV. Hey, it worked for them.

Click here for more information on the benefits of the plank and how you can properly do it yourself.