Italians work hardest at beach bodies

Nineteen percent of Italians up their exercise regime ahead of their holiday, while 17 percent go on a diet.

The Spaniards were similarly concerned with their summer appearance, with 14 percent dieting and 21 percent doing more exercise ahead of their holidays.

Despite having a reputation for being first to claim their poolside spot, the Germans are the least phased about what others think of their bodies.

Just over five percent of Germans said they went on diets before going on holiday to make their bodies more attractive, while nearly 12 percent said they took more exercise.

This is despite being among the heaviest in the continent.

The survey, conducted by YouGov pollsters for holiday portal lastminute.com, interviewed more than 7,000 men and women from six different European countries.