A study has revealed that adults who exercise for shorter bursts of time can lose as much weight as those who work out for up to twice as long.

Researchers concluded that 30 minutes of exercose was as “equally effective” at shedding the pounds as an hour worth of sweating.

The study concluded that sweating for half the time was “enough to turn the tide” for obesity.

According to the latest government figures, more than 60% of adults in England and a third of 10 and 11 year-olds are overweight.

The Department of Health advises adults that “vigorous exercise” of an hour and a quarter of weekly is needed.

It also recommends that two and a half hours of more gentle exercise, such as brisk walking, is also important to include in your daily routine.