While we are ALL for gender equality here at The Carousel, we also have a firm grasp on reality and realise there are simply some things that men can do that women can’t, and vice versa.

In particular, we are talking about exercise. There simply are some exercises that men can do that women should steer well away from, explains Adala Bolto, founder of female fitness franchise ZADI Training.

In fact, there are some exercises that should be avoided by both sexes due to the simple fact that most people perform them incorrectly, which can lead to injury. Unless you have a specific goal, a personal trainer or can perform them with great form, it’s best to avoid any exercise where the cons may outweigh the pros.

Whilst straight leg push ups may look pretty neat, pushups from the knees will help protect against lower back and shoulder pain. Place your hands slightly below your shoulders with your fingers pointed forwards and slowly lower yourself to effectively work out your pectorals, deltoids, triceps and abs.

“Contrary to popular belief sit ups are not the best way to get rock hard abs,” says Adalo. They can be damaging to your back and your neck. Instead, try a planking exercise, either with straight legs, or better still, with knees bent to the ground for extra stability.

Harvard Health reports sit ups are “hard on your back,” and “plank exercises, in which you assume a position and hold it, are the gold standard for working your core.”