Summer is just around the corner, and now's the time to start increasing your workout regimen to get rid of that winter padding.

And who better to consult than the celebs whose amazing bodies make us green with envy. While Elle Macpherson and Jennifer Aniston might make it look easy with a team of experts to help them stay in shape, we discovered that, for us mere mortals, it has more to do with sheer willpower and a lot of sweat.

Elle Macpherson

You won't find this busy mum-of-two lounging around on a treatment bed - instead Elle takes a natural approach.

'I'd rather drink three litres of water than sit in a spa and be pampered. It has the same effect,' Elle says. 'I try to put aside an hour a day, five days a week, to do physical exercise.' Diet-wise, Elle's very controlled. 'I'm blood type A, so I run well on rice and veg,' she says. And she admits she eats small quantities. Her treat? 'Fennel tea with manuka honey.'

TOP TIP: Body confidence is all about wearing what's right. 'A well-chosen bra and knickers can balance your body,' she says. 'If you're comfortable, you feel good.'

Cindy Crawford

While a few extra kilos in winter seems natural, Cindy Crawford never stops her diet regimen. 'I never let myself go, and then have to pull it all back,' she says. What's her secret? Protein and veg with the occasional wholegrain. Cindy insists it's not hard once you get used to it. And her secret weapon is to get a little sexy! Cindy loves to work out with striptease classes. 'It's so hard and it's really fun,' she enthuses.

TOP TIP: Reduce your body fat and build muscle, but don't lose all your curves.

Nicollette Sheridan

For Nicollette Sheridan, having a few treats has meant she can keep control of her weight. 'I love pizza and fries,' she reveals, but otherwise sticks to healthy food. The 44-year-old's also very active. 'I run four to five times a week,' she says. 'And I love the gym.' But Nicollette also has a saucy way to ensure she feels great. Nude housework! 'It's a normal thing for me to do,' she laughs.

TOP TIP: 'I discovered Gyrotonic - it's similar to Pilates and really changes your body quickly,' Nicollette explains.

Jennifer Aniston

At 39, Jennifer Aniston stays svelte with a salad-based diet. 'She eats salads all the time,' a friend says. On top of a diet loosely based on the Zone diet - high in fibre, lean meats and healthy snacks - Jen also does two hours of yoga and Pilates, four or five times a week. ‘It's a workout and a meditation,' she explains.

TOP TIP: Keep up the motivation with treats. 'You have to cheat at least twice a week - it's a must,' she says.

Heather Locklear

Looking good comes easily to Heather, who's been active from an early age. But now, at 47, Heather's learnt that it's important to adapt your exercise schedule to take account of your age. 'Now I run on a treadmill, work out with my trainer and do yoga,' Heather says, but admits even she can struggle to find the motivation some days.

TOP TIP: Recite a mantra. 'To stay positive at 7am, I say: "Oh lunges! I love lunges! Let's do another set!"'