Middle age spread help!!

[Dickorydockwhatthe]

I gave up socially smoking 2 years ago and turn 40 this year. I've put 2 stone on and have gained weight around my middle and upper arms places where I normally never attracted weight gain. I have a round face so no matter my body size my face always looked chubby however I am now currently sporting 2 double chins and looking like a giant sized foot head 😭 I find huge comfort and satisfaction in eating and turn to it for treats. I joined a expensive gym which is nice for the pool, sauna and jacuzzi 😬. I have been to classes but soon as I stop I lose motivation. Can anyone advise a life style change, exercise for someone who is obviously getting old. I heard cardio isn't great for 40 somethings and resistance training is better is this true??

[Dickorydockwhatthe]

Also there is so many diets but I want to be able to sustain it and change my mindset without depriving myself or over indulging.

[Namethecat]

What is your typical exercise on a daily basis. As in walk/drive to work ? Sit in office all day or running around ? What are you doing from 6pm - 10.30pm ? Weekends ?

[Dickorydockwhatthe]

I work with children so active in work, but I do drive. I was attending circuit's, shambam and legs, bums and tums 4/5 times per week. However it was a case of all or nothing and would burn out quickly over doing it and then not go for weeks then back again.

[Namethecat]

Has your eating / drinking changed in past few months / years ? Are you going through the menopause ?

[muddledmidget]

Rather than an all or nothing approach to the gym, set a longterm goal of going to 2 classes a week for the next 2 months. You can decide that week which 2 classes so it fits in around other commitments/energy levels. After those 2 months decide what your goal is for the next 2 months. I find this helps build healthier longterm habits, and also gives me the chance to catch up the next week if it's all gone wrong

[Dickorydockwhatthe]

Diet not massively changed. Just now in medication for anxiety (not sure if this maybe a cause). Not menopausal as far as I know. Biggest change is probably now I eat when stressed and not smoke. I just feel my metabolism has given up on mean. I always had a flattish tummy and toned arms 😞

[wastingtimeworrying]

I find its so much harder to lose weight now in my 40s than it was 10 years ago. Could you find a class to go to with a friend ? (i have just gone back to zumba twice a week - doesnt feel like exercise as am having fun) I think there is a certain amount of accepting that our bodies will never be the same again 😢