HE’S SO SMUG ABOUT FITNESS REGIME

Dear Coleen

MY husband and I are both in our 70s and we’ve been married for more than 40 years. He used to be a drinker and a smoker, and the only exercise he got was the odd round of golf or when he walked to the pub.

Over the past year, though, he’s had a complete change of outlook. He’s stopped drinking and smoking, started exercising and never stops bragging about it.

For years, I tried to encourage him to be healthier and take more pride in himself, but I’m finding myself wishing I had the old version back.

He’s now started to nag me about my lifestyle, which I take objection to, as I’ve always been fit and looked after myself. I’m snapping at him all the time and can’t believe this is happening at our stage in life.

I’d appreciate your advice.

Coleen says

I HEAR you – I’ve experienced the same thing myself when people have given up smoking and I’ve really struggled to do it. It makes me want to go completely the other way!

Tell him you think what he’s achieved is fantastic and you’re proud of him but you’d also appreciate him not preaching to you. Be honest and tell him it’s annoying, especially as he’s actually preaching to the converted!

I’m pretty sure the novelty will wear off at some point and he’ll calm down.

However, try not to be too negative about what he’s done because there might be things you could do together that you’ll both get enjoyment from – hikes or bike rides are just two examples.

And how lovely would it be to find something else in common at this age that you can do together? Good luck.