new, looking for a buddy
 

Hello, I am a 43 year old mother of 3 teenage sons. Two are heading to college in a few weeks, the 3rd is just starting his freshmen year in HS. I am 5'3, and presently 180 lbs. That is down from my weight of 212 last fall. Taking it slow and steady, I watch what I eat, and recently joined a womens gym. Knowing my frustration level, I chose not to join a formal weight loss plan, because exercise and muscle gain may make the scale move a bit slower, and I don' want to be driven totally by the number on the scale. I want to feel and look better. There's not a tremendous amount of suppport in my male household, so I am looking for a bit of ongoing support from people in a similar situation. The gym has been great, but I still feel like the fat girl trying to keep up. Not too many of them have weight issues. I tell myself that maybe they once did, and someday, 60 minutes on an elliptical machine will be something I too can accomplish. Until then.....I need encouragement for the smaller accomplishments! Maybe you can identify with me???????

Hi - Just wanted to say good for you! Sounds like your well on your way to a new you.
I'm also in my 50's, 2 grown sons and have exercised since I was 21 (fat or thin).
I just wanted to let you know, that for sure, many of the gym goer's are people with weight issues. Either they have had bouts with being overweight, underweight or struggles with body image. Not saying there aren't a few people that have been healthwise since youth, but the rest of us out number them.
So don't feel bad at the gym, you should be proud that you are doing something so good for yourself (and for your family).

Thank you Star, I appreciate your kind words !!! :)