Trainers are trainers right? Hardly. When it comes to getting fit you need to tread more carefully, because not all kicks are created equal. And we’re not talking on-trend colourways. Whichever way you to choose to get sweaty - be that HIIT, tennis or a marathon - you can now lace up your hard-working trotters in shoes that meet the specific demands of that workout and allow you to smash your PB once and for all.

But while trainers are now more techy than ever, it’s wise to steer clear of the marketing buzz as you make your choice. “The most important thing to consider when buying a new pair is whether they are comfortable for you,” says Alex Ross, podiatrist at Pure Sports Medicine. “While it may seem basic, research has linked this factor to reduction in injury.”

He adds that choosing kicks based on “pronation” and the “height of your arch” - aka your foot shape - is futile since what matters is how it moves as you workout. “It can often be a case of trial and error to find something that really works for you,” he concedes. “However getting a podiatrist to assess your gait and guide your choice can help.”

Still feeling a little overwhelmed? Alex says trying on two to three pairs at a shop with an in-store treadmill before you purchase is essential, and he also recommends sticking to brands and styles you know you gel with. Interestingly, an easy way to tell you’ve hit the jackpot is when you hardly make any surface noise as you clock up those running miles.

He also advises having a minimum of two pairs of trainers in your fit kit ‘drobe - one for gym-based workouts and interval training, and another for longer runs. But if you want to boost your fitness further, read on…

The ultimate trainers for any workout