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??

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.

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 ?

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.

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

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

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 😞

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 😢