4 LEARN - TO DO PRESS-UPS

After the age of 30, unless we’re careful, we lose 5 per cent of our muscle mass each decade. My favourite upper body exercise is the press-up, as it helps to strengthen lower back and abdominal muscles, and is a fast and effective way to build upper body strength.

Studies show the ability to do press-ups is a good predictor of heart health (in a study, men in their late 30s who were able to do 40 or more in one go were 94 per cent less likely to have a heart attack in the next ten years than those who could do fewer than ten). I am pleased to say that although I’m 64, I can still do 40 press-ups every morning.

You need to work your way up to the full press-up gradually. Success is a combination of muscle memory, strength, plus determination to add one more each time.

Beginners should start standing, arms outstretched, palms on a wall in front of you, dipping the nose towards the wall and pushing back. Progress to hands and knees, pushing your body weight forward into your hands so your body forms a straight line from shoulder to knee.

When you can do 20 easily, progress to the full press-up.

Lie face down with your palms directly beneath your shoulders and the balls of your feet touching the ground. Keep your body straight — your head in line with your back — and raise yourself up using your arms. Lower your torso to the ground until your elbows form a 90-degree angle then push up again. Begin with one and aim to add an extra pressup every day.