It may be a great exercise for increasing all-round body strength, but the burpee is the exercise most likely to weaken morale, according to new research.

To mark National Fitness Day on 26 September, Premier Training International conducted a survey of over 200 fitness professionals across the UK to find out how their clients rate the exercises they regularly carry out.

Figures show that 28 per cent of clients identify the burpee as their least favourite exercise. Conversely, clients are seemingly much more content when required to punch things, as boxing was named as the most popular exercise.

Squats were also a popular choice across the board with 18 per cent of PTs and 10 per cent of clients choosing this as their preferred exercise. For the PTs themselves, weight training is the favourite form of exercise, with 19% opting for this as their favourite, while running was voted as the least popular.

It is important that PTs give their clients a wide range of exercises, whilst also making sure there are parts they enjoy to keep them motivated and fulfilled,” said Premier Training International global marketing director Victoria Branch.

“It’s also important for PTs to consider how they can make the least enjoyable exercises more fun for their clients, or at least highlight how beneficial they are, so clients continue to see the value of a varied workout.”