Why You’re Not Losing Weight Over 35 – And What Actually Works

Still stuck with stubborn weight that just won’t shift?

You’ve hit 35+, you’re raising kids, you’re working full-time, and every time you so much as look at a biscuit, it feels like your jeans get tighter. Sound familiar?

The good news: you’re not broken.

The bad news? You’ve probably been sold a load of rubbish.

Whether it’s:

• Doing Cambridge or Slimming World 4 times (and still ending up back at square one),

• Surviving on coffee and leftover fish fingers,

• Or running yourself into the ground with cardio classes that leave you sweaty but still soft...

It’s time to shift gears.

What’s REALLY Going On With Weight Loss Over 35

Here’s the truth most fitness influencers won’t tell you: fat loss in your late 30s and 40s looks different – but it’s absolutely doable.

Let’s break it down:

1. Your metabolism hasn’t “slowed down”

Yes, hormones can shift. Yes, muscle mass decreases if you’re inactive. But it’s not age alone that’s the problem – it’s lifestyle.

When you’re constantly stressed, under-slept, and eating inconsistently, your body does what it’s meant to: protects fat stores and runs on survival mode.

That’s why you need a smarter strategy.

The Diet Industry Failed You – Not Your Willpower

Slimming clubs taught you to fear calories, demonise carbs, and worship the number on the scale. But what did they never teach you?

• How to fuel your body with enough food

• How to build lean muscle

• How to actually feel good in your skin without starving

No wonder most women (and men!) feel like their bodies have “changed” after 35.

What Actually Works After 35?

Let me give it to you straight – you need muscle, protein, and a bloody good routine.

1. Start Weight Training

No, it won’t make you bulky. What it will do is:

• Speed up your metabolism

• Reduce joint pain

• Help you feel strong, lean and energised

If you’re looking for a structured programme, Elevate offers personal training in Bridport that’s tailored for busy parents who don’t have time for 2-hour gym sessions.

2. Eat Like a Grown-Up

Not rabbit food. Not shakes. Real, satisfying meals:

• 30g+ protein per meal

• Carbs that fuel you (yes, even at dinner)

• Fats that support hormones

Think salmon, sweet potatoes, Greek yoghurt, oats, eggs. If it lived, swam, grew or walked – it’s probably a good shout.

3. Prioritise Sleep and Stress Management

No, you don’t need a meditation retreat. But going to bed earlier and learning to say “no” now and then? Game-changers.

If You’re Local: Fitness Support That Fits Your Life

If you’re based in or near Dorset, there are some brilliant options to help you get started.

• Looking for a personal trainer in Bridport? Elevate specialises in coaching men and women over 35 who want real results, not fads.

• Want to try a group session? Our fitness classes in Bridport are designed for real people with real lives – no bootcamp yelling, no judgment, just effective, empowering workouts.

• Whether it’s one-to-one coaching or joining a fitness class in Bridport, you’ll find support that works around your work, school runs and family commitments.

  Whether it’s one-to-one coaching or joining a fitness class in Bridport, you’ll find support that works around your work, school runs and family commitments. You can also explore HealthHub SW for even more local health and wellness services.

Your New Mantra: Progress Over Perfection

You don’t need to be perfect – you need to be consistent. That means:

• Skipping the “all or nothing” trap

• Sticking to a few simple habits daily

• Lifting weights, fuelling well, and giving your body time to change

You can drop weight, feel stronger, and have energy to spare – even with a job, a partner, two kids and a dog who barks at leaves.

Ready to Do Things Differently?

If you’re ready to ditch the fad diets and start something sustainable, Elevate Coaching offers:

• 1:1 personal training in Bridport

• Custom online coaching for busy parents anywhere

• Small group fitness classes in Bridport that focus on strength, community, and confidence

💬 Message today to chat about your goals.

 No fluff. No judgement. Just results – built for real life.

Want more resources to support your health and fitness journey in Dorset? Check out HealthHub SW a trusted local hub for wellbeing, movement, and nutrition.