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Five essential bits of kit to transform your out-of-gym sessions

PULL UP BAR

Master the pull-up and you’ll be well on your way to a solid physique. Get a bar at home and aim for at least 6 sets each week – once you can hit 10 reps consistently, you know you’re in very good nick. Best buy: Beachbody Chin-Up Bar £59.84, teambeachbody.com/shop/gb

RESISTANCE BANDS

Resistance bands work particularly well for higher reps, and one study published in the Journal of Strength and

Conditioning Research showed that using a combination of bands and weights is more productive than using weights exclusively. Best buy: My Protein Resistance Bands £12-£22, myprotein.com

KETTLEBELL

Bridging the gap between strength and cardio, virtually every kettlebell moves requires core stability and a good level of cardiovascular fitness, as your muscles are forced to compensate for the bell’s low centre of mass. Best buy: Body Power 16kg Kettlebell £55.99, fitness-superstore.co.uk

SUSPENSION STRAPS

Suspension training allows your whole body to strengthen as a unit, and while the larger muscles are the main targets, your smaller, stabilising muscles are also being engaged. That means you’re reducing any weak points in the system, improving both efficiency and movement. Best buy: TRX Move System £99.95, store.trxtraining.co.uk

AB WHEEL

A deceptively comprehensive bit of kit that not only isolates your abs, but also works your lats, erector spinae, delts, chest, biceps and triceps for full-body benefits. Start from a kneeling position, keep a slow rhythm and really pay attention to your muscle control. Best buy: Body Power Premium Ab Wheel £9.99, fitness-superstore.co.uk