The Stress Connection to Stubborn Belly & Back Fat

If you’ve been dieting, training, and doing everything “right” but still can’t shift stubborn belly or back fat…
The problem might not be your diet.
It could be stress.

When your body is under constant pressure, it produces higher levels of cortisol — your primary stress hormone.
In short bursts, cortisol helps you perform. But when it stays elevated for too long, it changes how your body stores fat.

One of the biggest signs of chronic stress is fat stored around the belly and back.
And here’s the kicker: overtraining and undereating make it worse.

To tackle cortisol-related fat storage, focus on these three things:

1. Train Smart — Strength training and moderate activity. Avoid excessive high-intensity work that spikes cortisol.

2. Regulate Your Nervous System — Breathwork, yoga, walking outdoors. Anything that shifts you out of constant fight-or-flight.

3. Eat to Support Recovery — Prioritise protein, anti-inflammatory foods, and steady blood sugar.

Lowering cortisol isn’t about doing less for the sake of laziness — it’s about creating the right environment for your body to let go of stored fat.

If you want to learn how to train, eat, and recover in a way that works with your body instead of against it, join my free Female Rider Code Skool group.
I’ve opened 20 free spots before it moves to a monthly sign-up.
👉 Join here