Irina Shayk's post-baby body has caused a sensation at Cannes this week, but how did she do it?
There was never any doubt that Irina Shayk was going to be one of those super-human women whose body bounces back within weeks of having a baby. Yet, nothing prepared us for just how good Shayk looked when she stepped out onto the red carpet at Cannes Film Festival this week. The Victoria’s Secret model took centre stage again this evening as she opened the amfAR Gala wearing a floor-length Prada sequinned dress.
It wasn't Shayk's first appearance, on Tuesday she stole the limelight in a plunging yellow Versace gown for the screening of Radiance (Hikari) that showcased her curves and washboard stomach.
While the majority of comments on social media were in awe of Shayk’s incredible figure just two months after giving birth to her daughter, Lea de Seine Shayk Cooper, there were a few who questioned if she was even pregnant in the first place. Last night, the model opted for an equally daring dress by Balmain and revealed a tiny bump that put to bed any questioning.
“The key to regaining your pre-baby body is to regularly exercise while you’re pregnant," says fitness expert Paola Di Lanzo. "Having three children myself I know how important it is to exercise while pregnant and to maintain this after the birth."
Shayk has always been a strong advocate of working out, and regularly shares posts of her exercising on her Instagram, so it's likely that the model followed a fitness regime throughout her pregnancy.
If you missed the exercise memo whilst pregnant all is not lost though.
"Once you've got your doctor’s go ahead, which is usually between four to six weeks postpartum, try to incorporate 20 to 30 minutes of exercise every other day," says personal trainer Amélie Khellaf. "A mixed routine of heart-raising movements and strength training is ideal. Think planks, mountain climbers, jumping jacks, tricep dips, split squats, walking lunges and toe reaches, which are all fairly low impact and make for a safe and effective workout."
For those who didn't have a solid fitness regime before having a baby and don't have the time, energy or inclination to start one, Khellaf recommends ditching the car or bus and walking where possible. "Taking long walks with the pushchair is another good way to shed the pounds and regain muscle strength. It also has the benefit of engaging your arm muscles and your core."
While there's little doubt that Shayk has a personal trainer on hand and most likely a nanny or two to help with the night feeds and endless nappy changes, she should be applauded for revealing a glimpse of her post-baby stomach on the red carpet.
It might be smaller than the average tummy just after eight weeks after giving birth, but few of us would be able to muster up the same amount of confidence to pull off three risqué dresses in as many days.
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