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Fitness trainer shares 2 hacks to shed belly fat for women above 35: 'Cardio alone won't help you lose stubborn…'

Updated on: Sep 7, 2025, 14:59:55 IST
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Fitness coach Dr Akanni Salako shared 2 weight loss hacks to get rid of stubborn belly fat for women above 35. (Unsplash)
Fitness coach Dr Akanni Salako shared 2 weight loss hacks to get rid of stubborn belly fat for women above 35. (Unsplash)

Belly fat can be the toughest to lose, especially when you're a woman over 35. Fitness coach Dr. Salako reveals 2 hacks that will enhance your fitness routine.

Losing weight after 35, especially belly fat, can feel like an uphill battle. Hormonal shifts, slower metabolism, and lifestyle demands often make it harder for women to see results, even with regular workouts.

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According to women’s weight loss coach Dr Akanni Salako, the key isn’t just cardio or calorie-cutting - it’s a smarter, more balanced approach. He reveals two easy hacks to help you shed fat and finally beat that stubborn belly pooch.

In an Instagram video posted on August 26, Dr Salako shares advice for women above 35 aiming to reduce belly fat, emphasizing a holistic approach beyond just cardio, strongly recommending strength training and meals rich in proteins and fibres. He also adds a sample workout chart and meal plan that will make it easier for you to adopt his advice. In addition to this, he also slips in a bonus tip that will help you manage meals on busy days.

Strength training

Dr. Salako recommends strength training for a minimum of three times a week. According to the fitness coach, “Cardio alone won't help you lose stubborn belly fat, especially when you're navigating hormonal shifts. Strength training builds muscle, balances your hormones, and allows you to burn more calories at rest.” He also shares a sample workout chart and suggests incorporating it in your next gym session.

Dr. Salako shared a full body workout chart that will help you incorporate strength training in your routine. (instagram/@dr.salako)
Dr. Salako shared a full body workout chart that will help you incorporate strength training in your routine. (instagram/@dr.salako)

Protein and fibres in every meal

The coach recommends making proteins and fibers a priority at every meal to support weight management and overall wellness. He explains that having consistent cravings is your body’s way of signalling a need for nutrient balance. He suggests, “Pair lean protein with high-fiber foods during your meals. This will help you stay full longer and prevent the midnight and the late night cravings.” He also shares a sample meal chart with go-to protein and fibre rich meal options, complete with cooking time and how it works for the body.

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The fitness coach shared meal options that will help you include more proteins and fibres in your diet. (instagram/@dr.salako (image enhanced using AI tools))
The fitness coach shared meal options that will help you include more proteins and fibres in your diet. (instagram/@dr.salako (image enhanced using AI tools))

‘Pivot plans’ for busy nights

When life gets busy, it’s easy to grab takeout or junk food. Having a few “pivot” meals will ensure you are never stuck without a healthy option, even on busy days.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

  • Eshana Saha
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Eshana Saha

    Eshana Saha is a fresh face in lifestyle and cultural journalism, bringing a refined, multidisciplinary perspective to the intersection of entertainment, fashion and holistic wellbeing. With less than a year of professional experience, she has quickly adapted to high-pressure editorial environments and currently works full-time with HT Media. Prior to this, she interned for nearly six months with Hindustan Times’ entertainment and lifestyle vertical, where she gained hands-on experience in digital reporting, trend analysis and editorial storytelling. Based in New Delhi, Eshana specialises in comprehensive coverage of major cultural moments — from international film press tours to the curated aesthetics of global fashion showcases, award shows and music-centred events. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English from St Xavier’s University, Kolkata, and a Master’s degree in English from the University of Delhi, equipping her with a strong academic foundation and a keen ability to deconstruct complex cultural trends into clear, high-impact narratives. Beyond the red carpet, Eshana has developed a growing focus on health and wellbeing reporting. She bridges the gap between celebrity-driven trends and practical, evidence-informed lifestyle advice, ensuring her work remains both aspirational and grounded in editorial rigour. She has extensively covered the health implications of Delhi’s air pollution crisis, while also playing a key role in amplifying expert-led insights on women’s health and mental wellbeing, helping translate complex medical perspectives into informed, impactful public awareness. An artist at heart, she explores multiple creative forms — from visual arts and music to culinary experiments — and brings a creative’s eye for nuance, texture and detail to every story. Whether analysing runway dynamics or examining emerging wellness movements, she remains committed to accuracy and the highest standards of contemporary journalistic ethics.Read More

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