Advice to break through plateau

Morgalla

When I started going "back to the gym" (taking kickboxing, zumba, aerobic toning/core classes etc) and taking Taekwondo with my son, each class almost killed me. I was literally gasping for breath, felt like dying, sweating my butt off, but now...well I do all these classes and it is, dare I say "easy" to the point that I don't think I am even getting my heart rate to an anaerobic level during the workouts at all. My diet has remained relatively consistent throughout.

So working out 5-6 days a week, and eating 1200 (on non-workout days) to 2000 calories a day and I am maintaining what I have- give or take a half pound. This FRIGHTENS me because it is an awful lot of work and disciplined eating to NOT LOSE ANYTHING>to just remain at the very same weight... and I fear that if I weren't doing this, it would mean I would be gaining instead.

So I am hoping that it is lack of anaerobic exercise during the workouts that is keeping me here- and if I add something to intensify my workout- go to the weight room for instance before zumba- that things will once again start to improve.

I have made progress- a size 22 to now a 14- (goal is 4) since December, and my cardio is hugely improved, along with my range of motion and general health- so there is no danger that I will "quit", but I do still have a lot to lose before I am considered even "normal" weight for my height.

I have tried and cannot adhere to "special diets"- so I count calories, and for the most part watch portion sizes and try to eat things that will sustain me (keep me full ) so I naturally avoid junk food and drinking my calories. I have lost weight successfully in the past (over 10 years ago) but my hormones (and age!) might be having a negative say in that now..

Please don't suggest "low carb"- I can't go without fruit, milk products and beans (which perversely count as a starch in those plans.) My best option is workout modification because I feel I have the most control over that aspect of my life.

Thanks in advance to all those who take the time to read and reply