Bloated Britain: UK fitness levels reach all time low

Half of Britons cannot cycle for 20 minutes

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.