The internet is abuzz with admiration for Kathryn Bernardo and her well-toned bod. In early February 2024, Kathryn sparked headlines with the unveiling of her billboards along EDSA in Guadalupe, Makati City, offering a sneak peek of her striking physique.

Following this, she made a sultry, ab-baring runway appearance during a clothing brand’s fashion week on Sunday, March 10, 2024.


And just recently, Kathryn showcased her well-toned bod yet again as she became the latest ambassador for Century Tuna. But exactly how did she attain her killer abs? In an interview with PEP.ph, Kathryn’s fitness coach, Century Tuna Superbods 2014 winner Mauro Lumba, gives us the low-down on her fitness journey.

READ: Kathryn Bernardo’s Fitness Journey

Kathryn has had an active lifestyle even before training with Mauro. And because she was naturally petite, her main focus when she sought Mauro’s guidance was to improve her core strength and increase her muscle mass.


Mauro shared, “Her initial goal was to build a little more muscle and get toned. Specifically for her lower body and she wanted to work on her abs.” To achieve this goal, Mauro devised a workout program centered on strengthening Kathryn’s core and incorporating cardiovascual and weightlifting exercises.

“Usually we start with a little warm-up and some dynamic stretches. After that, we start with some strength exercises to build muscle, some accessory exercises workout smaller muscle groups then we got conditioning to work on some cardiovascular endurance. And we always finish with core exercises. This takes about an hour to an hour and a half.”

Additionally, Mauro pointed out that he had only three weeks to supervise Kathryn’s progress before her shoot for her latest endorsement. “Actually, when I first started working with her, we only had 3 weeks to train before her Century Tuna shoot. So we were not expecting much but she did great for the time we had. She was super disciplined, dialed in on her nutrition and trained almost everyday.”

Mauro acknowledged that one of their major challenges was Kathryn’s demanding schedule.  However, he was impressed by Kathryn’s unwavering dedication,  he said, “I think the biggest challenge was her schedule. Because she had a lot of commitments and projects. So it was hard to squeeze in a workout. But she did very well in prioritizing her fitness. Even though she is tired on some days or would be coming from a shoot/meeting, she always will always manage to push through her workouts.”

Kathryn Bernardo

Kathryn Bernardo

Kathryn Bernardo’s Fitness Coach Shares Tips on Achieving Abs

One popular notion in fitness that he wishes people wouldn’t take literally is that “abs are made in the kitchen.” According to Mauro, achieving abs also requires consistency and dedication to your workout routine. For individuals grappling with this challenge, Mauro offers the following tips: “There are many factors but if you’re starting from zero, I’d advise you to find something you like or start something that interests you. Whether it be running, lifting weights, crossfit, boxing, etc., having interest will get you started. Then from there, it’s important that you find a good coach. A good coach will hold you accountable for your workouts and will also guide you properly and progress you towards your goals.”