Louis Smith needs regular 'lie-downs' during 'Strictly Come Dancing' rehearsals

Olympic silver medallist Louis Smith has revealed that he needs regular rests during rehearsals for Strictly Come Dancing.

The 23-year-old has claimed that previous gymnastic injuries have resulted in his inability to complete intense dance rehearsals without a break.

"People think that because I went to the Olympics I am superhuman but I have a torn cartilage in my knee that needs an operation, a fractured ulna and swollen vertebrae in my back," Smith told the Radio Times. "So every 15 minutes I'll have a lie down for five minutes."

Smith, who dances on the BBC One reality show with professional partner Flavia Cacace, is favourite to win the contest.