‘We don't normally notice there's an issue with our functional fitness until there's something we're unable to do,' personal trainer Stone Gye explains. ‘If you've ever put your back out, woken up with a crook neck or strained a muscle, it's a shock to realise that you've been taking simple muscular movements for granted.'

The good news is, it's never too late to do some core exercises that yield great results. The problem for many, however, is that there simply isn't enough time - or so you thought. Just a few minutes each day can make a real difference, and before you know it you'll be fitter, healthier and more confident.

Five minutes to a fitter you

If a few minutes a day is all you can spare, make the most of them with this simple routine.

Minute 1 Remember star jumps? With straight arms, clap your hands above your head then bring them down while jumping in and out of a split leg position.

Minute 2 Pretend to skip with a rope to really get your heart pumping.

Minute 3 Put your back against a wall and slide into a sitting position. Hold. This will help tighten your stomach and thighs.

Minute 4 Get someone to hold your feet. Do sit-ups with hands behind your head. Roll over and raise your upper body to stretch your abs.

Minute 5 Hold the plank position, propped-up on your elbows and toes. This will help strengthen arms, legs, back and core muscles.

Build Exercise Into Your Day 

If you take the bus to work, pick it up a few stops from your home or get off earlier than normal and walk.

Use the stairs instead of the lift.

Instead of a coffee break, take an exercise break and go for a quick stroll around the block.

Don't just sit in front of the TV - dig out your exercise bike to use while you watch.

Buy ankle and wrist weights to wear while doing your household chores.

Where possible, travel by bike instead of driving. At rush hour it could even be quicker!

When you're on the phone, don't just sit and talk, pace around or do squat thrusts.

Set your alarm a few minutes earlier in the morning and do 10 stomach crunches as soon as you get out of bed.

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