Stay-fit secrets of the stars

Dame Helen Mirren, 63

Best known for... An illustrious acting career that's seen her win an Oscar for her performance as Her Majesty in The Queen and numerous accolades for her role as DCI Jane Tennison in TV crime drama Prime Suspect.

What's her healthy hobby? Although she does make the occasional trip to the gym, the actress says she gets 'lots of exercise' by walking her dogs. Taking Rover for a leisurely hour-long stroll burns around 220 calories an hour. But that's not all: research also shows that just spending time with our four-legged friends can lower blood pressure and reduce stress levels.

Helen says: 'I've never done anything to excess. I've never drunk or eaten too much. It helps to stay balanced.'