She made her name as the super-svelte swimwear model with endless legs.

But Rachel Hunter cut a chunkier figure when she appeared on the American reality television show Celebrity Circus, her somewhat sturdier shape barely contained by a corset-style outfit and unflattering fringed miniskirt.

The 38-year-old has complained that the athletic nature of Celebrity Circus has caused her to gain muscle and made her look bigger.

Rachel Hunter on new show Celebrity Circus (left) and pictured in 2004 (right)

Her increased strength was certainly evident in her bulging biceps and broad shoulders - she has performed on the trapeze and walked the tightrope during the series.

She is one of six celebrities on the new NBC show, in which they perform circus stunts in front of a live audience. Viewers can vote for the best performance - and for whom they want sent home.

The 5ft 10in model's weight has fluctuated over the years. At 11st she was at her heaviest following the birth of her second child, Liam who is now 13.

Rachel Hunter with Joey Fatone, the host of the new US show, in Los Angeles

The New Zealander then followed a gruelling diet and rigorous exercise regime to shed the weight.

Her reward was to become the face and body of underwear brand Ultimo - replacing ex-husband's Rod Stewart's latest wife Penny Lancaster.

Miss Hunter married Stewart, who is 24 years her senior, at the age of 21 but walked out in 1999. They have two children, Renee, 15, and Liam.

Rachel hits the trapeze in her corset

Leggy: Rachel Hunter was married to Rod for eight years and the couple had two children together