I am looking to buy one large piece of equipment, like a treadmill, bike, etc. I was wondering which would be best If I can only buy one? I have very little space so I just want to make sure I buy the best thing I can! Also what are some of the better smaller gadgets to use?

I am of no help with the larger equipment, but for smaller equipment, you will want several sets of assorted weighted dumbbells. If you are just starting weight training, 3,5 and 8 pounds are a good place to start.

I was gonna say dumbells! Great minds think alike! My favourite equipment is running shoes and an mp3 player.

Have you been to a gym or tried some friends' equipment? No matter what you get, you'll have to love it! The important thing is that you get something you'll use and enjoy.

What's your aim? goal? Weight loss? Fitness?

Thank you guys for the responses...I started Jan 3rd at 317 lbs, Im down to 302 lbs right now. I am currently walking/running in place in my living room because it is too cold outside. I do that for 30 min a day, 6 days a week. I am also doing 50 push ups and 50 crunches along with that. I have not bought any of the gadgets yet, just wondered what I should buy to get the most for my money.

I think a treadmill, bike, or elliptical would be great. I think it is a preference thing. The advantage with the treadmill and elliptical is that they come with programs that you can choose from rather than try to think of one on your own. I guess with the bike... collage video does sell dvds/videos you can use with your bike like a spinning class. I guess one more piece of advice is to go big. Meaning I think you should buy gym quality equipment so it will last and you can have a workout like you are at the gym but you don't have to go to the gym. I hope that makes sense.

Oops missed the smaller equipment part. A mat, weights, resistance bands, exercise ball.

I love the elliptical. A good quality one. I also like to use small weights.

I agree with 72butterfly, it really depends on preference. I have friends who love the treadmill, however I don't tend to like it as much. I love the elliptical, however I have friends who despise the elliptical I say get a free week membership to a gym (I think almost every gym offers some kind of free trial) and test out the different equipment to see what you like best.

That is a super good idea mocha74.

I also have limited space at my current establishment. I'm a Wal-Mart junkie, so I bought a treadmill from there for about $200 and 2 five pound weights for, oh, I forgot how much, no more than $2 or $3 each. It's a good place to start. When I get more space, I am looking to try to get an elliptical too though.

P.S. The treadmill folds vertically to save space.

I had a expensive treadmill from Sears and I got rid of it. I couldn't stand it. I recommend Precor Elliptical instead

I would say try out whichever one you think sounds like you would like first. If you live in a bigger city you can get great deal on craig's list http://www.craigslist.com/ or from newspaper classifieds, people get rid of stuff so quickly! Then, you can see if you like it and if you are going to DO it before spending a bunch of money.

I think that it would be very beneficial for you to check out some videos and see what kind of stuff you like. Aside from the dumbells I would recomend a stability ball and I love my mini trampoline! And good shoes and a sturdy sports bra are all you need to get started.