Actress Malin Akerman, known for her captivating roles, recently disclosed the rigorous fitness regimen she adopted for her character Margo Banks in the new Netflix series, The Hunting Wives, alongside a steadfast personal rule that underpins her wellness. To prepare for a role that frequently involved “nude scenes or generally showing off her fit figure,” Akerman intensified her workouts just five weeks before filming began.
Pre-Filming Power-Up: Intensive Training for Margo Banks
Akerman, 47, detailed her rapid body transformation, explaining that she reached out to industry friends for trainer recommendations to achieve a “Wonder Woman” physique. Her pre-production preparation involved weight training three times a week. Once filming for The Hunting Wives commenced, she ramped up her commitment, working out five days a week in her hotel gym. Akerman also credits her “muscle memory” from her past as a competitive figure skater and an already active lifestyle for her ability to get camera-ready efficiently.
The “Nonnegotiable” Morning Movement
Beyond the specific demands of a role, Akerman maintains a consistent, “nonnegotiable” rule for her daily routine: working out first thing in the morning. She firmly believes that this morning movement empowers her entire day, boosts her energy levels, and enables her to be more present with her family. Even on days when she feels tired or sluggish, she attests that a quick workout significantly shifts her outlook and capacity to handle the day.
A Flexible Yet Focused Fitness Philosophy
While her routine becomes more intense for demanding roles like in The Hunting Wives or previously Watchmen, Akerman generally adopts a relaxed yet varied approach to fitness. She incorporates a mix of online classes, favoring platforms like Obé Fitness for diverse options including Pilates, dance cardio, strength training, and stretching. Hiking with her dog near Griffith Park in Los Angeles is another regular component of her active lifestyle. On average, when not filming intensely, she aims for about three workout sessions per week.
Balanced Eating with Room for Indulgence
Akerman’s diet follows an 80/20 approach, emphasizing balance over strict deprivation. Her goal is for 80 percent of her plate to consist of vegetables and fresh fruit, supplemented by quality proteins and wholesome carbohydrates like sweet potatoes or quinoa.
However, she’s refreshingly candid about her indulgences. Akerman openly admits to enjoying treats such as cheese platters and Nutella, even consuming the latter straight from the jar. She cleverly uses these treats as a motivational tool: rewarding herself with chocolate after a workout, but skipping the indulgence if she misses a session.
Prioritizing Holistic Wellness and Mental Health
For Akerman, fitness extends beyond physical appearance to encompass mental well-being. She prioritizes setting aside time for herself daily, often engaging in Transcendental Meditation, a practice she has taken courses in. She also highlights the benefits of getting out in nature and views exercise as crucial for her brain health. Furthermore, Akerman is open about seeking therapy when needed and acknowledges that even a glass of wine can contribute positively to her mental health. She has also mentioned trying non-invasive body contouring procedures like CoolSculpting Elite as a “kickstart” to her fitness journey in the past.
Akerman’s holistic approach to health emphasizes prioritizing and planning her time, recognizing that while true “balance” might be elusive, striving for it day-by-day is key to feeling good and maintaining energy for her family.
