How Rebecca Gibney is banishing her “bingo wings”

Rebecca Gibney is sharing her fitness journey with fans as she works to tone her “bingo wings” and “ditch the muffin top”.

The actress, 56, was motivated to improve her health prior to starring in a new series of the beloved Aussie drama Packed to the Rafters, which will screen later this year on Amazon Prime.

“In 2012 I gained a lot of weight to play the role of Shirley Moochmore in PJ Hogan’s wonderful film Mental,” Rebecca captioned a "before" and "after" photo  on Instagram this week.

“As you can see from the pic Shirley had a good set of bingo wings going and after 9 years I finally thought I’d try and give the wings the flick. The thing is I’m not in a hurry and while I have managed to lose some weight and tone up I still have loose skin, cellulite, wobbly bits , wrinkles, freckles, age spots - you name it.

“I’m a mum, I’m over 50 and things will never be what they were and that’s ok. Because what’s important is I feel healthier and fitter than I have in a long time. I’m still enjoying chocolate, wine, hot chips, Parmesan potatoes, pasta, etc, but just not as often.

“Most importantly I am happy because I am taking care of me in my own time and at my own pace and I’m not trying to ‘attain’ anything other than I want to feel even better than I did before (but frankly I’m a born optimist so I generally feel pretty positive most of the time).

“I guess what I’m trying to say is - if you’re on a journey to health, mentally or physically, weight loss, or weight gain, or spiritual growth, or just trying to get through the days you just need to go easy on yourself. Life really is a journey not a destination and it has joyous bits and floppy bits, but underneath all the ‘bits’ we’re all just the same. So be kind to yourself. Go gently.”

In December, Rebecca showed off her toned stomach on Instagram (above), noting: “Don’t normally bear my stomach for ANYONE but I’m quite proud of the fact I’m slowly managing to ditch the muffin top thanks to a few fabulous people.

“Firstly a big thanks to Dr Zac Turner for getting my head around my changing body and the things I can do to help put it back on the right course ( yes it does involve limiting your wine intake) However it DOESNT mean giving it up - it just means moderation - something I’m not great at but I’m learning.

“Thank you also for the great programme and always answering my sometimes crazy questions - how long will this take, can I have that? What do I eat on a low calorie day?”

Dr Turner recently gave his advice to news.com.au on kick-starting a health regime: “Your first step for success is to plan out your diet, be strict with yourself and also ensure to reassess goals as you travel further down your timeline.

“Lifestyle changes require willpower, dedication and perseverance. I recommend you keep a journal of some kind, be it simply taking progress photos or writing down your thoughts, to keep you motivated.

“Day one is always the hardest – but once you’re over that hurdle, every day gets easier.”

Rebecca, who lives in New Zealand, said her local fitness instructor had played a key role in her fitness kick: “Also want to thank Dave at Xceed Fitness in Dunedin for working with my not so fit physique and not yelling at me to do it quickly but working with me to tone up. Your gentle way means I will want to keep doing this."

The actress revealed she's a big fan of the 28 by Sam Wood program too.

“And finally a shout out to the wonderful Sam Wood, who got me started on this journey - you were the first person to convince me it only takes half an hour a day and you can take your time,” she said. “We are always in such a rush to get things done but you taught me if I do it a bit at a time and make it a lifelong habit we can make the changes we need. I’m 5kgs down and feeling great!”

Try these 5 equipment-free moves to tone your arms after 40.