The actress, whose character Sookie Stackhouse is well known for her tight T-shirts and hotpants, revealed that knowing that she will be filming in skimpy outfits ensures that she rarely misses a workout.
"If you're going to be spending literally every single day of your working life wearing clothes that barely cover your body, you're gonna be extra-diligent," Paquin admitted to Health magazine.
"There's just a little extra motivation of, 'Hmmm, teeny white shorts and a bikini top? I think I will go to pilates this morning'."
While freely admitting to enjoying exercise, Paquin also said that she needs to learn to relax more.
"I'm very hard on myself," she added. "Sometimes it's like, walk away from the elliptical machine. Go sit outside. Do something relaxing."
The fourth season of True Blood begins on June 26 on HBO.
