Serenity I have never been in your condition but I am aware of some of the challenges you are facing. The
gym is a good place to go but it has to be a place you enjoy going to, are comfortable with, and are getting the help you need whether it be Curves, Golds
Gym, or wherever.
Here are some tips. Start out slow by increasing your physical activity. You need to
exercises that are not going to put undue
stress on your joints such as jogging, high impact
aerobics, etc. Walking is a great way to start trying for 30 minutes a day for 5 days a week. If you can only do 10 start there and slowly increase your time. You should be at a pace where you are breathing a bit hard but still able to carry on a conversation.
Notice I said 30 minutes a day. You still get benefits if you do two 15 min. sessions per day or three 10 min. sessions spread out throughout the day. As you progress slowly increase your time. You can also do
exercises in your own home using light dumbells or resistance bands doing arm curls, shoulder presses, etc. These can even be done while sitting in a chair.
The biggest thing is to stay motivated and have patience. The condition you are in did not happen overnight, and it will take time to get in shape, but it WILL happen. You have to be motivated to make this a lifestyle change and a permanent one. You can't work out for a couple weeks or until you lose the weight and then stop. This is a lifetime challenge for most people to stay in shape and take a lifelong concious effort.
As far as
nutrition, try to make healthy choices and eat smaller portions. Consult your physician before beginnign if you haven't already, or a nutritionist. Every journey begins with a single step and the ones who succeed are those that refuse to quit. You may stumble and fall but just get back on track. Many people lose and regain their weight several times before it comes off and stays off. You can do it, so don't quit! I hope I have been some help and feel free to ask any other questions you may have.
