Longissimus capitis semispinalis cervicis spinalis thoracis multifidus erector spinae iliocostalis lumborum rectus abdominis.

Say that three times fast.

Then say hello to some of the muscles that give you the stability and balance to do everything from lifting a kid to pushing a lawn mower (or pushing a kid and lifting a lawn mower).

Bodywise, be you apple or be you pear, you've got a core - everything that's left after you chop off your arms, legs and head (who needs 'em anyway?).

No question, exercising the core can be a bore. But consider this: Strengthening these muscles can not only relieve back pain but make it possible to suck in your tum, which in turn gives you a fighting chance to zip your pants.

The exercises I'm demonstrating here are all based around a simple act of torture known as the plank. They are deceptively simple and quickly become painful enough to make any pirate go "Yaaarrrrrgggghh!" They are also highly effective, take mere minutes to do and require no equipment except your charming self.

So inhale deeply and jump on in, and feel free to heap curses on the blankety-blank-blank plank. You might be wasting your breath, but at least you won't be holding it.

Lisa Ryckman is certified by the American Council on Exercise as a personal trainer, fitness instructor and weight management consultant. Contact her at Ryckmanl@RockyMountainNews.com.