Malin Akerman undertook an intensive five-week fitness regimen to prepare for her role as glamorous seductress Margo Banks in the Netflix series ‘The Hunting Wives.’ The actress, 47, specifically sought a trainer to help her achieve a “Wonder Woman” physique for the show, which features her character in numerous fit-focused scenes.
Intensive Training Schedule
To meet the demanding physical requirements of her role, Akerman incorporated a rigorous weight training program into her routine. She began working with a highly recommended trainer three times a week for the initial five-week period leading up to filming. Once production started, she increased her commitment, working out five days a week, often utilizing her hotel gym to maintain consistency.
Akerman emphasized that she made exercise a “non-negotiable” during this period, even on days she felt unmotivated. This disciplined approach, combined with her existing active lifestyle and “muscle memory” from her past as a competitive figure skater, allowed her to get camera-ready swiftly.
A Holistic Approach to Wellness
Beyond the accelerated training for ‘The Hunting Wives,’ Akerman maintains a broader, more flexible wellness philosophy. Her regular fitness activities typically include Pilates, yoga, cardio boxing, and hiking, often with her dog near Griffith Park in Los Angeles. She also enjoys using app-based workouts, particularly Obé Fitness, to vary her routine and prevent boredom.
Akerman prioritizes morning workouts, finding that they boost her energy and mental clarity for the day. She believes that consistent movement, even for just 20 minutes daily, significantly impacts her overall well-being.
Diet and Mindset: The 80/20 Rule
When it comes to diet, Akerman follows her own version of the 80/20 rule. She aims for 80% of her plate to be filled with vegetables and fresh fruit, complemented by quality proteins and wholesome carbohydrates like sweet potatoes or quinoa. This flexible approach allows for occasional indulgences, as she openly admits to enjoying cheese platters and even Nutella straight from the jar, often as a reward after a workout.
Mental well-being is also a cornerstone of Akerman’s health regimen. She practices mindfulness and often utilizes transcendental meditation to center her thoughts and manage daily chaos. She also acknowledges the importance of seeking therapy when needed and finds that simple pleasures, like a glass of wine, can contribute positively to her mental health. Akerman’s balanced perspective on health emphasizes that it’s a journey encompassing physical activity, nutritious eating, and mental fortitude.
