It was only a matter of time before last year's trainer du jour the MBT was knocked from its block by a younger, sleeker, better-looking model.

And that time has come.

Chung Shi shoes claim to do everything their predecessor did but in a much prettier package that can also shift cellulite.

Let's face it, no matter how pretty the face wearing the MBTS (Jemima Khan and Angelina Jolie) it still didn't distract from the fact they're a damn ugly trainer.

Chung Shi, on the other hand, are relatively normal looking.

To all intents and purposes they look like a trainer only with a curved sole which angles 20 degrees at the toe and heel.

While the beautiful celebrities are yet to jump the Chung Shi bandwagon, former royal correspondent Jennie Bond has raved about the trainers, sending their sales soaring.

In a recent article for the Daily Mail said she wore them to do the housework: "You're not only doing the most boring job in the world but getting a simultaneous workout."

According to the German company behind the new trainer, as well as busting orange-peel skin, the Chung Shi improves posture, muscle tone, circulation and has a built-in Pilates system to boot.

The trainers work by encouraging the body to walk with good posture, while the rolling action of the sole makes you burn more calories.

Equally at home in the gym or on a gentle stroll Chung Shi are taking off in Brighton.

At She Active in North Street retail manager Mel Horne says they are so popular, there is an eight week waiting list for some styles.

"I think people like them so much because they look better than MBTs and they give you the results because they're more aggressive, they force you to use all your muscles.

Also the article in the national paper really helped sales."

Who'd have thought Jennie Bond could do so much for a trainer?

Available from She Active, North Street, Brighton. Prices start at £129.

You could also try: MBTs (Masai Barefoot Technology): Forces you to stand upright and works your muscles differently, helping to tone the leg, buttocks and stomach.

Although not promoted as anti-cellulite shoes, in theory they reduce cellulite and improve posture.

Earthshoes: Created by a Danish yoga instructor and claim to help you lose weight, cure back pain, banish cellulite, improve posture, reduce stress, build endurance, run faster and improve circulation.