The flaxen-haired modeling talent from South Africa is a classic beauty with the kind of jaw-dropping physique that made her a breakout star in the competitive world of Victoria’s Secret modeling. It takes effort to keep her looks in peak condition, and Swanepoel divulges the details of her diet, workout routine, and health regimen in an interview with Savoir Flair. As her job demands a high amount of muscle concentration and hours spent posing, she is careful not to overdo her workouts, although, that doesn’t stop her from sneaking in a few squats. In her own words, “you can do them anywhere!”

Read on for an in-depth look at the workout routine and positive healthy lifestyle of the beautiful birthday girl.

What kind of attitude do you have towards staying healthy and fit?
Staying healthy and fit is my job but to be able to work the way we do, I also need to do it. Taking care of myself makes me feel better; it makes me able to perform as a model. If I was unhealthy I wouldn’t be able to do what I do. I feel lucky that it is part of my job to take care of myself.

How do you sneak in exercise into your working day?
I usually can’t but our work is so physical, shooting lingerie and swimwear, that I work my body out all day. I know which muscles to target – as I’m posing, in a way I’m actually working out. I don’t pose lazily – I pose with purpose and use every muscle.

Do you stick to a regular workout routine for a long time?
No, I know my body well enough to know when I need to rest if I’ve been working a lot. I can also feel when I need to focus on intensifying my exercise for a few weeks. It’s all about balance… You can’t overwork your body.

When you’re traveling or when pressed for time, what exercises do you like to do?
Squats are always good and you can do them anywhere! Because traveling is physical already, I try not to overexert myself. If I feel like I need to do something before a shoot, I’ll do some resistance training on towel in hotel.

Do you have a go-to gym outfit? What’s your preferred style?
I don’t have a go to outift. I like to mix up my outfits to make it more interesting. Sometimes I like to go more “hip-hop” and other times more feminine, like when I do Pilates and ballet. I like to dress for the exercise I’m doing and Victoria’s Secret Sport has such a great range that I can find everything I need there. I love the Victoria’s Secret Incredible Front Close Bra for more intense activity and The Angel Sport Bra for low-intensity activity.

What is in your gym bag?
Right now I have ankle weights, resistance bands, and water, so that I can really be on the go. I also love having the Victoria’s Secret Sport Incredible Front Close Bra in there – it’s so comfortable and supportive. It’s always good to have some fragrance in my bag to put on after a workout – right now I love the Victoria’s Secret Scandalous scent.

How has your approach to your own physical and mental well-being transformed since becoming a Victoria’s Secret Angel?
When I started with VS, I started learning more about what I should eat, how my body works, what exercise is best for me, and how far I can push my body. Working for VS has also taught me a lot about work and life balance.

What’s on the horizon for you as a Victoria’s Secret Angel?
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show! We are going to London this year and it is going to be incredible. London is very exciting for all of us and we have a bunch of amazing trips coming up – a lot of beautiful beaches.

What’s currently on your workout playlist?
Trap music – it’s like hardcore electronic.