There are two things that we must always remember. First, that our health is our greatest asset, and that no matter what is going on, that by spending time taking care of this that everything else will work out just fine. Two, the darkest hour is always before the dawn, so if you think things are bad then smile and start to celebrate because its just about to get better.

We'll begin by taking care of our health. Okay, you've cancelled your gym membership (or want to). That's fantastic, because if you had continued with it, you may not have discovered bodyweight exercises which will beyond a shadow of a doubt get you in the best condition of your life.

Think about it a muscular and toned torso, chiselled chest, shoulders and arms. Not only that but you're properly proportioned, demonstrating the ideal balance of strength, stamina and flexibility. With more energy than you've ever known. How will you feel then?

Bodyweight exercises produce superior results when measured against weight training or cardio because -

1) by performing a variety of exercises in different directions we stretch and strengthen our bodies from all angles, making it more supple therefore less injury prone. This compares favourably to weight training where participants go for the cosmetic look, recklessly throwing their bodies out of balance, or the constant pounding of cardio,

2) by working with your own bodyweight to get the perfect combination of strength and stamina, you are significantly reducing the stress on joints caused by repetitively lifting heavy weights,

3) every exercise is a compound one that targets multiple muscle groups at the same time, and in particular your abdominals delivering a total body conditioning with every single workout,

4) they're the fastest and most effective workout you could do. Forget about endless cardio or punishing weights routines. If you want strength, stamina and energy then bodyweight exercises are an absolute must.

Here's a sample five minute workout, guaranteed to get you going!

Five exercises to be done for 1 minute each -

1) burpees - otherwise known as jumping jacks with a push up. If you're feeling fit, when standing up from your push up explode up into an explosive jumping jack,

2) free squats - stand up straight, feet straight ahead and put your arms out in front of you. Then bend at the knees, and squat down as though sitting down, and power up. Breathe in on the way down, and out on the way up,

3) squat thrusts - assume the push up position, and take it in turn to bring your left foot as far forward as you can and then your right. Once you get a rhythm, do it quickly,

4) push ups - if you tire on this exercise, complete the minute by bringing your knees to the floor and do assisted push ups. If you think its too easy, do them slow,

5) wall chair - imagine as if you're sitting on a stool against the wall, except there's no stool. With your back squarely against the wall, lower yourself down until your knees are at a right angle and hold.

Finish with some light stretches.

Bodyweight exercises have been used by athletes and warriors since time began, and will make you fitter and stronger than ever before in your entire life. And remember "No weights, no special equipment, no excuses."