In this episode, Redha debunks one of the most common myths held by men over 40: the idea that their metabolism is fundamentally "broken." If you’ve found that fat is harder to lose, energy levels are lower, and standard gym routines no longer deliver results, Redha clarifies that your body isn't failing it is simply adapting to shifts in your daily environment.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Your metabolism isn't broken: Aging typically brings quiet shifts in muscle mass, daily movement, and stress levels; your metabolism is simply adapting to these changed inputs.
Muscle drives calorie burn: Muscle tissue is metabolically active and burns calories even at rest. Preserving and building muscle through strength training is the most effective way to keep your metabolic rate high.
Severe calorie cuts backfire: Prolonged extreme fasting or aggressive calorie restrictions force your body into energy-preservation mode—causing you to eat less, burn less, and feel constantly fatigued.
Daily movement outweighs gym time: Sitting for long periods at a desk or driving lowers your overall daily energy output. Simple habits like a 30-to-40-minute brisk walk make a significant impact beyond structured workouts.
Sleep restores hormone balance: Quality sleep and stress control reset key hormones that regulate appetite, energy, and fat storage, making recovery just as critical as training.
BEST MOMENTS
"Your metabolism isn't broken... What has changed is the environment your body is operating in."
"Muscle is metabolically active tissue. That means it burns energy even when you are not exercising."
"When the body receives too little energy for a long period of time, it adapts by conserving energy. You eat less, and you burn less."
"Strength training is one of the most powerful tools for supporting metabolism... and you don't need much time in the gym."
"Don't listen to rules you have to force yourself to stick to—listen to your body. Whatever suits you best, stick with it."
HOST BIO
Redha Zertal is a strength coach and fitness educator who specialises in helping men over 40 rebuild their strength, energy, and confidence.
With over a decade of coaching experience, Redha has worked with hundreds of busy professionals, entrepreneurs, and fathers who want to lose fat, build muscle, and improve their health without extreme training programmes or restrictive diets.
As the founder of RZ Fitness in Formby, UK, Redha became known for his practical, results-driven approach to strength training and sustainable fitness for men in midlife.
Through The Fitness Confessional podcast, Redha shares the lessons he has learned from years of coaching men navigating the realities of life after 40 — including stress, demanding careers, family responsibilities, and changing metabolism.
His mission is simple:
To help men build stronger bodies, clearer minds, and healthier lives long into their 40s, 50s, and beyond.
Redha’s coaching philosophy focuses on:
• Strength training for longevity
• Sustainable fat loss and nutrition
• Building muscle after 40
• Improving energy, focus, and resilience
His message is clear: fitness after 40 isn’t about extremes — it’s about consistency and smart training.
LINKS:
Website: https://rzfitness.co.uk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RZFitnessFormby
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rzfitness_formby/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rzfitness
