For those of us not blessed with bump-free thighs and legs long enough to clean chimneys like Lily Cole's there's always yoga to improve on what we were born with. Get gazelle-like thighs with the help of a simple three-part yoga sequence.
"The stretching and increased flexibility it offers give the legs a nicer, longer-looking and leaner shape" says slim-thighed London-based yoga teacher, Isabella Nitschke, www.intuition-ltd.co.uk.
"Regular yoga practice and correct breathing techniques will bring many health benefits including an increased metabolism and improved blood circulation. Both can help in loosing weight and reducing cellulite" she adds.
1. Keep it Kilimanjaro - tadasana or mountain pose
What's it good for?
Strengthening the thighs and improving posture.
Expert tip
Your toes should be spread wide against the floor. Ground all four points of the feet and divide the body weight equally on both" says Isabella.
Push the feet into the floor to help tighten your thigh muscles and lift these up and in towards the thighbones.
Keep the back of the neck long, the chin tucked in slightly, and your face soft.
How long do I hold the pose?
Breathe deeply through the nose for at least 20 breaths.
2. Utkatasana or chair pose
What's it good for?
Firming the buttocks and thighs.
Expert tip
"Avoid drawing your shoulders up. And keep your knees bent as if you were sitting on a chair and distribute the weight evenly on the feet" advises Isabella.
How long do I hold the pose?
Hold for 10 to 20 breaths, then exhale and straighten your legs back into mountain pose.
3. Anjaneyasana or crescent moon pose
What's it good for?
Firm abs, hips and thighs.
Expert tip
"Your knee should be bent at about 90 degrees, over your ankle" says Isabella. "Bring your body weight deep into the left hip until you feel a stretch in the front of the right thigh. Keep the shoulders from drawing up. Look straight ahead."
How long for?
Hold for 10 to 20 breaths, return to standing, and repeat with your other leg.
Maybe you have your own favourite thigh-firming poses? If so, please share them with us!