Sometimes the best things are the simplest. Which is why it should surprise no one that when we asked fan-favorite Pilates instructor Karen Lord (as seen here, here, and here) what exercise routine to carry with you, from home to gym to indulgent vacation in the Maldives, she said The Plank. It's not earth-shattering, it's not wheel-reinventing—but it's hard, and it's good. And those are the only two things you need in a workout. Plus it costs nothing. Really, nothing is standing in your way of doing this. Especially not now that Karen has shared this really soothing video to get you into position. So get down and do it. It takes barely any time at all.

(And stay tuned. There's more from Karen coming, just in time to get your New Year's fitness goals in shape.)

Karen Lord filmed by Tom Newton.