Country star Faith Hill graces the cover of Shape Magazine in a bikini for the first time ever. The 41-year-old mother-of-three is feeling better and more comfortable with her body and she says it’s because of regular exercise.

“I found I slept better, had more energy and was stronger,” says Hill, who then increased her regime to include Pilates classes three times a week.

“It was so hard, but ultimately so worth it. My core is much stronger, and my arms are more toned. In fact, wearing a bikini on a magazine cover is my 41st birthday present to myself.”

Thanks to Pilates, even hubby Tim McGraw is benefiting from the results of a more flexible and confident woman.

“I could bend in ways I haven’t been able to since I was a teenager,” the Nashville-based star tells Shape magazine for its December issue (on sale Nov. 10).

“My husband [Tim McGraw] loves it!”

I’m starting to think Pilates might be the answer for the unhappy middle-aged couples with marital problems… if it makes you look that good and bend! It’s a miracle! Or it could be what we call Photoshopping!!