If you find it hard to make the time to get to the gym – or maybe if you just plain don’t like going to the gym – then you should consider getting yourself a pair of toning shoes. Masai Barefoot Technology (MBT) Shoes, Reebok EasyTones, Avia, Skechers Shape Ups and FitFlops are just a small selection of some of the main brands currently available on the market.

There are a variety of different styles and designs available. Some designs use curved, rocker bottomed soles, others have special air pods incorporated into the sole and others use “microwobbleboard” soles – which are based on balance board technology. Regardless of the design of shoe or sole, the basic operating principle is the same. A small amount of imbalance is introduced to the walking process, which makes your lower body muscles react in an attempt to restore the natural equilibrium of the body. The end result is that the muscles in your legs and bottom do a little bit of extra work as you walk around in your toning shoes.

You can tone your legs and trim your bottom with every single step that you take – not bad. Toning shoes are usually a bit more expensive than ordinary exercise shoes, but you might be happy to pay a little bit extra if they live up to their promise.