Sarah Shahi, Maxim's 'TV's Hottest Female of 2012,' Reveals why Workouts and Books make her Feel Sexy [PHOTOS]

"Fairly Legal" actress Sarah Shahi was recently honored by Maxim magazine, flaunting the October cover of its "TV's Hottest Female" of 2012 issue. So just what makes the 32-year-old brunette bombshell look and feel so sexy? A killer workout and positive, high-confidence attitude might do the trick, and Shahi is flattered that people have taken notice of her hard work and dedication.

To view an amazing Maxim photo gallery of the stunning Shahi, click here.

The former Dallas Cowboys cheerleader-turned-actress recently admitted to Shape magazine how it feels to be voted "TV's Hottest Female" of 2012: "It's awesome! I could be called much worse! Although, it IS kind of weird to be applauded so much for the way you look. I take care of myself, but the pure acknowledgement should go to my mom. She raised us believing that confidence is within and we could do anything we set our minds to."

Shahi's stellar and fit bod is thanks to a healthy diet and strict fitness routine:

"Most days start off as a race to get out of the house. I take my son to school every morning then go straight to the gym. I eat a Think Thin bar, brownie crunch is my fave, with an Americano. Depending on the day, lunch can be another bar or a salad of some sort-the more greens, the better. Dinner is almost always a fish with steamed veggies.

I get bored pretty easily when working out so I have to change it up. I go back and forth between Tracy Anderson method and my trainer Omar Lopez at Made in LA-it's a combo of dance, running, and old fashioned/miserable weights, squats, lunges, a bit of yoga, and some cycling."

The former "Sopranos" star continues with:

"My favorite workouts are the ones that don't feel like I'm working out!! So dance is a big one. Another is any kind of isolated moves, like ballet moves. Anything that works the glutes and legs-sign me up! And I like to blast the music. I have to get lost in the music. That helps.

Right when I finish a workout, I feel pretty sexy. Even though I'm sweaty and I don't smell like a rose, I feel strong. It does a lot for me mentally and physically. I feel in control, not to mention, it still feels good when guys check me out, especially my hubby [Steve Howey]."

But according to Shahi, looks aren't everything - brains are sexier if anything:

"Reading is another one [that feels good]. I know it sounds weird, but my definition of sexy has changed as I've gotten older. And being smart and informed makes me feel sexier than any outfit. Right now I'm reading Writing Screenplays for Fun and Profit by Thomas Lennon and it's hilarious."

Beautiful and smart! Shahi is sure to make a splash in 2013.

Shahi stars in the upcoming film Bullet to the Head alongside Sylvester Stallone - it is set to be released on February 1, 2013.