Bloated Britain: UK fitness levels reach all time low

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

The UK's fitness levels have plummeted to an all-time low, with more than half of the population unable to cycle for just 20 minutes, a study out today suggested.

The study, by LA Fitness health club found more than two thirds cannot do 20 sit-ups, while half cannot touch their toes.

Fred Turok, chairman of LA Fitness, said: "Fitness levels in this country are reaching danger levels - not being able to touch your toes sounds laughable, but it is really a national tragedy.

"This action demonstrates basic flexibility - a lack of which can result in life-threatening circulatory problems and arthritis, as well as joint problems and shortening of ligaments leading to complete immobility."

Two out of three respondents confessed to not doing any fast-paced fitness activity, such as cycling, running or speed walking, in the last year.

The audit, which involved interviews with 1,000 people, showed the UK population has a strong grasp of healthy eating, with 89 per cent aware of the "five-a-day" campaign, which encourages people to eat more fruit and vegetables.

But one in three said they felt "saturated with healthy eating material and messages" and over half were "very confused" about recommended exercise.