I was an apple shape from puberty until age 27--large belly, broad shoulders, ample chest, but barely there hips, thighs, and butt. It didn't matter if I weighed 135 or 165 (and everything in between): I was always the same shape! I used to run and do upper-body strength training 3-4 days a week but couldn't change my body shape.
But then I started doing circuit training and using a stationary bike. I also upped my workouts to 5-6 days a week. And let me tell you--the stomach melted off. I used to have a 32 inch waist and 38 inch hips, and now I have a 28 inch waist and 39 inch hips. Now I'm an hour glass and have a much flatter stomach. The only change I made to my diet is eating more protein.
Moral of the story? Do lots of lunges and squats, and do 45 minute workouts at a high resistance at least four days a week on a stationary bike. The cardio will flattern your stomach, and the increased resistance and leg reps will make your butt and hips bigger as in more muscular, which will also make your stomach look flatter in proportion.
It worked for me--and I NEVER thought I would lose weight in my stomach!
Diet and exercise is the only way! It's also possible some of it is water, so
limit your sodium to no more than 1,500 mg a day and increase your water intake. You must eat a good diet and do cardio.
Cardio and low calorie diet is the only way tio lose the belly fat. I have same problem but my personal trainer told me this is what I have to do and is why I have "my diet diary" to log my caloric intake. I've been running and lifting weights but my belly fat is being stubborn. I know it's bc I "cheat" on eating. I'm hoping tracking my calories will help me resist temptation... Good luck!