Thin but flabby!

[christmastreewithhairyfairy]

I'm fairly happy with my weight (size 8, BMI around 20) but not my shape. I've never been much into exercise but now in my late 30s it's catching up with me and I hate my wobbly upper arms and sqidgy belly that looks 6 months pregnant if I bloat at all. My thighs are disproportionately chunky too, though I suspect that's genetics and less easy to change.
I know you can't spot reduce fat but I probably do need to burn some off, as well as tone up. I don't want to lose weight overall though - if I do my boobs disappear, my face looks haggard and I also don't want to end up with that sinewy over exercised middle aged look (I know I want the moon on a stick!)

So what approach is best - diet, cardio, weights/circuits, something toning like pilates?
I know it should be a combo of those but knowing myself, I can only form one habit at a time so need to start small.
Advice on what's worked for anyone else? please please don't say cardio or low carb diet, I hate them both

Weightlifting will do the most to transform your body. You will get curves in the right places, the squidgy bits will become firmer, and you will probably lose some fat (unless you eat a terrible diet.)

Thank you just! I actually prefer weights to other forms of exercise, not that I've done much. Can you recommend a program to start on?

That depends on what equipment you have available. If you can access a gym then good beginners programs include Strong Curves, Starting Strength and Strong Lifts 5x5.

We have a range of free weights at home. DH did 5x5 for a bit! Might be a bit much for me, especially as I've done my back in recently. I like the sound of the other ones though - I will look them up. Thanks!!