How the Victoria's Secret models exercise

While most of us would feel pretty damn good if we made it to the gym twice in one week, type #Trainlikeanangel into Instagram and you might reconsider your self-congratulatory pat on the back. From side squats and planks to boxing with former champion boxers, in the run up to this year's Victoria's Secret show, which takes place in Paris on 5th December, the Angels have been hitting the gym hard. "The girls generally start training a month before the casting and should they be chosen, they continue to train, often upping the intensity until the show," explains Michael Olajide Jr, co-founder of Aerospace where some of the Angels train. "Nutrition is an important part of the process. The goal is to have the greatest show body they can for the purpose of wearing lingerie."

So, how often do they workout? "Every girl is different. There are girls that work with me twice a day and there are girls that alternate days with yoga or ballet. Every body is truly unique," says Olajide Jr. Just from looking at Instagram though, it's safe to say that achieving the toned, sculpted body of a Victoria's Secret Angel is a full time job in itself. For those who are tempted to employ some of the techniques, here is everything you need to know...

Boxing benefits

Boxing has seen a huge resurgence in popularity this year, especially among women. The technique not only gives you a full body workout, but it also helps improve your coordination. No doubt, with the knowledge that Adriana Lima uses the sport to get in shape for the show, boxing will remain a fitness favourite for the foreseeable future.

Strong core

Using a range of gym equipment, including a medicine ball and balancer, Martha Hunt proved that a strong core is essential. It's no surprise that they've all got impeccable abs.

Weighted workouts

British model Leomie Anderson has mixed up her workouts with side squats, leg lifts and weighted crunches and one-legged bends. Anderson highlighted how simple moves can help strengthen and tone your muscles. 

Smooth sliders

If you haven't used a slider before, then Kelly Gale's Instagram video is a lesson in just how useful and effective they can be. The circular discs make it easier to move, but also engage your core muscles. For those that don't want to invest in the gym accessory, paper plates can work just as well.
The Victoria's Secret workout playlist

We've all got our favourite songs we like to workout to, even the Angels. "Adriana loves house, classic rock, and even hip hop," says Olajide Jr. "Kelly Gale loves hip hop, but tends to go with anything that's playing. And Bridget [Malcom] is exclusively a 70/80's girl."
And the post-workout snack...

"Visualise ice cream but drink water. It's the best thing for you post workout..." says Olajide Jr.