new to exercise - Exercise & Fitness Message Board

annb · 02-03-2007, 09:31 PM

I am 43 and very overweight. I have never exercised very much. I need to know when to exercise? how much? It is winter so I can't walk. Here are the equipment I have on hand: my bike on a standard stand, "the bean", and several dvds like the biggest loser, the firm, Pilates (which I can't do, too hard). Any suggestions on what to do first and for how long? I can't afford a personnal trainer and my dr says just move, but I want to do it right. thanks for any suggestions. I also should point out I have a bad lower back and swollen feet and ankles, which I am sure they are caused by the overweight. I look awful in a swimming suit so I will not join the y. Sorry for being a pain, but I do want to exercise. I think I am scared of what it will do to me. LIke a heart attack. I get out winded just going upstairs and work and I have to catch my breath once I am upstairs or half way up somedays. thanks for letting me sound off.

rita · 02-03-2007, 10:17 PM

I think it's great that you've made the decision to do something for your weight problem. This is the first and most important step.
My advice at this point is to first look at your eating habits. Exercising alone will not be enough to lose weight. You need to control the amount of food you eat oterwise all your efforts will be in vain. I would suggest talking to a nutritionist to help you set up a healthy diet based on your age and health situation. With a proper diet and a gradual introduction to cardio and weight training you will have the tools to lose the weight you want. It will not be an fast or easy process but, I can almost promise you, that if you perservere you WILL succeed. Do not be tempted to circumvent the process by resorting to "miracle" diets. There are no such miracles.
So, the first order of business is to get your eating under control while gradually adding cardio to your routine.

cat3883 · 02-04-2007, 06:37 AM

Congrats. on deciding to exercise. Walking is really a good way to start. Is there a mall close to you? You could walk there. Or I have a friend that started by walking in a Walmart. If you are not used to exercising you are going to get winded easily but trust me it gets better. As for your eating make changes slowly so you wont get overwhelmed and discouraged. My suggestion to you is get the book Body for Life. Its not a miracle diet but it explains so much. There will be days you won't want to exercise but if you just get yourself started you will feel so much better physically and emotionally. And remember the weight didnt go on overnight so it wont go away overnight. Give yourself small goals that are actually achievable. We all have days that we have overeaten but dont let this make you give up. Just get up the next morning and start all over again. But the most important suggestion I can give you is Believe In Yourself. Good Luck

Naxis · 02-04-2007, 07:51 AM

While it's cold, the DVDs will be very helpful. You should aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise at least 3x a week. Just keep the intensity at a level you're comfortable with for now. If you have to pause and take a breather that's okay, but once you've caught your breath get back in there and finish your workout. And as mentioned, your eating habits will make or break you. Good luck and congrats on making the first step!

annb · 02-04-2007, 03:34 PM

thanks for the advice on exercise.