If you just got engaged or counting down the days till the big day, figuring out your fitness routine is a crucial aspect of wedding planning. Amping up your fitness routine will not only help you fit in your wedding dress and look amazing in photos but it will also give you confidence and plenty of energy for your big day.

You may have heard of terms such as “bridal bootcamp” (shudders) but working out for your wedding day doesn’t have to be crazy intensive.

Working out a fitness plan for your wedding day can be extremely stressful so we asked Australian supermodel, mum-of-two and founder of Body By Finch and B.O.D by Finch, Rachael Finch to share her top tips for looking your absolute best on your wedding day.

How early should you start prepping to get your dream body?

“You’ll want to ensure you’re thinking about your training regime at least 2-3 months out from your big day. Even if you haven’t gotten that much time, that’s okay, starting today and doing something is more than nothing! You will get some great benefits. Aim to workout anywhere between 3-6 times a week depending on our fitness levels and write down your training days to keep you committed. On my program, we included a mix of HIIT and cardiovascular training, as well as flexibility work. It’s well rounded and designed to keep the body trim and tone.”

Best exercises to look toned and fit for your wedding?

Rachael recommends to do yoga as this will help strengthen the muscles and help you look toned for your big day, plus it will also give you some much needed “me” time and clear your mind.

“On Thursdays in my program, we have our BODYtone workout – it’s a yoga-inspired stretch session with toning components. I have found this to be an incredibly effective workout, especially for women, because it includes flexibility work with functional based movements that build strength and tone the body. Incorporating more yoga-based workouts into your traning regime will help get your body in great shape but will also keep your mind grounded and calm.”

She also recommends doing some core exercises to keep and hold your posture better.

“Core baby! Core strength is crucial. If we work on building that central stability within our body it will allow us to hold our posture better, complete day to day activities easier, and of course, feel so much better in our wedding gown!”

How to look long and lean for wedding photos?

On the day of your wedding, you want to be looking tall and toned – so to avoid slouching on your big day, Rachael recommends to keep your posture in mind and train your body, months before the big day.

“Whatever you’re up to throughout the day, always keep your posture top of mind. Whether it’s sitting at your desk, walking the dog or doing things around the house…think about keeping your shoulders down, core tight and engaged, and neck long. You’ll be training your body on how to stand and hold yourself correctly. It’s the small things that make a big difference.”

Most importantly, Rachael notes that length comes from stretching.

“I stretch before bed every. Single. Night. Not only does my body love it but I feel calm and settled right before I close my eyes for sleep. Even if it’s just give minutes, you’ll get some beautiful benefits – improved flexibility and injury prevention. I start at the top of my body and finish on my legs.”