She’s already started sending me texts to find out when I can start working out again, and I’ve even noticed one missed call. Now I jump every time the phone rings. If only the effect was to make me do 50 sit-ups and some bicep curls as well, I might not actually need to see her in the first place.

Seriously, though, I really do need to start moving again, especially as my goal is to drop a dress size by July. I’ll be taking inspiration from the brilliant diet and fitness tips we’ve just finished gathering from some of A-list land’s top trainers (click here) – and I suppose I’ll have to hit the treadmill at some point as well.

In the meantime, here are some of the things I’ve learnt (through bitter experience) that make working out feel less like work:

Choose a goal that’s meaningful to you. For example, I’ve told my trainer I want to be able to do more one-armed press-ups than my boyfriend (currently I can’t do any and as far as I know neither can he, but still…), so we’re working towards that.

Invest in a pair of professional running shoes – you know you’re giving yourself the best possible comfort and support when your trainers are designed for marathons. Mizuno are generally considered to be the best and I know that my pair are – I’m sure there’s a more technical way of saying this – very bouncy, comfortable and light.

Don’t eat for two hours before working out if you possibly can. A stitch can be brought by as little as half a piece of toast.

If you don’t have music, have something happy, exciting or motivating to think about when you’re on the treadmill or cross-trainer. It’ll help distract from the pain/boredom and make the time pass quicker. (There’s a rumour that Jennifer Aniston thinks of Brad – allegedly.)

If you feel yourself flagging, sip water. It’s the quickest way to perk up your energy.

Finally – and this really only applies if you’re working out with a trainer, but it’s a favourite of mine – if you really can’t take it anymore, start making lots of alarming, grunting sounds and you’ll be allowed to stop.

Let me know your favourite fitness tips – god knows, I need them.