5 simple home exercises will give you a full body workout

Get a better body by following the military's Big 5 drill programme, which is used by troops to improve fitness, wellbeing and health.

The British Army has developed a full body workout programme called the 'Big 5' which can be done by anyone, anywhere - and you can follow it below in an exclusive series of videos produced for Mirror readers.

The exercises are used to improve core stability and enhance the overall health, wellbeing and performance of troops, as well as reduce the risk of injury.

And now us civvies can follow the very same drills at home, using everyday things around the house as weights.

Fitting some physical activity into your day is easier than you think and to stay healthy or improve your health, you need to do two types of physical activity each week: aerobic and strength exercises.

Press-ups

The press-up is an exercise that builds both upper body and core strength. Aim for a tempo of 1:1:1 - one second down, one second pause at the bottom bracing the core and one second to return to the start position.

Kettlebell deadlifts

The deadlift is a key exercise for strengthening the back, glutes and hamstrings. Aim for a 2:1:2 tempo - two seconds up, once second pause at the top and two seconds to return to the start position.

Planks

The plank is a core control exercise in which the muscles that stabilise and protect the spine are braced. Start with 10 second holds and over time work up to 20-30 seconds.

Reverse lunges

The reverse lunge is a functional movement that works the legs and glutes. Try for a tempo of 2:1:1 - two seconds down, one pause at the bottom and one to return to the start.

Squats

A squat is another functional movement that allows the body to be lowered towards the ground while maintaining a neutral back. Go for a 2:1:2 tempo - two seconds down, one pause at the bottom and two to return to the start.