I'm 5'7 and around 180 at the moment, with a first goal of 154, I can't even remember where that number came from but it's been on my ticker for over a year so it's what I'm working towards and will adjust when I get closer!

I carry pretty much all my excess weight around my bum, thighs and in my legs. So even at this weight I'd quite happily wear a (non skimpy) bikini top and shorts, but it'll be quite a while before I'd be happy with my legs/butt out. I hate it now when I go swimming in my one piece and I have to have my thighs on show.

I've started my weights training recently in the hope that this will help to tone.

I think it'll be really interesting to see what the 'right' weight for me is, and I'm really excited to find out!

I'm 5'7 & I have a medium sized, hourglass frame and I looked the best in a bikini when I weighed 155-165 lbs.

I think your goal is perfect! It's the same as mine

Awesome guys thanks so much! I was starting to wonder if my goal wasn't low enough but you all helped me realize that it may be just right!! We'll see how it goes!

Go for it! I'm 5'7 and just under 150 but carry my weight in my belly and boobs. My goal is to lose 10 more, but I'd wear a bikini now.

Actually, I have found that bikinis are much, much more flattering on me regardless of my weight. It's simply because it's easier to get a good fit because I can buy bottoms/tops in separate sizes.


The absolutely MOST important thing is that you get a bikini top that fits well when it comes to finding something flatter. Make sure to buy it in your bra size (and make sure you're wearing the correct bra size your underbust=band size and if you don't trust me on this one check out the pictures here and here). I actually wrote a post on my blog about buying swimwear while losing weight that you might find helpful.

In terms of bottoms. Think about your shape and buy from there. if you have tummy problems you might want to look into high waisted bikini bottoms (they have a lot out right now that are gorgeous!). If you want to elogate your legs buy something that is high cut in the thighs. If you don't feel as comfortable showing off your thighs there are a number of mini-skirts out there too. It's a big reason why I LOVE two pieces because you can get a much better fit for your body.

As for me, I started wearing bikinis at the low-end of the 190's. I'm just an inch shorter than you to give you an idea. I would've worn them sooner but just hadn't thought to order one.

Oh, and LIFT WEIGHTS. Don't believe me? Check out the difference that it's made for me in terms of body structure.

Runningfromthefat - Thanks for that awesome post!!! You are so right about lifting, I realize that seeing your amazing before and after pictures!! Thats crazy how much of a difference lifting can do and that really opened my eyes to it. Did you gain/stall weight loss during lifting?

As far as lifting, I have Turbo Jam weight training video that you do with a weight resistance band. That probably isnt enough?? I should still get a gym membership? What do you ladies think?

Everybody has been so, very helpful to me! Thanks again!

No problem!

Yes, lifting is pretty amazing. There's a forum here with a lot of great advice on lifting, also if you can get your hands on the New Rules of Lifting for women it's absolutely amazing! You can do a lot with body weight exercises if you don't have access to a gym or buy your own dumbells (look at places like craigslist too, you might find some good deals there also or you can look into dumbells that are adjustable).

I did have a stall initially when I started. I hung out at the low 190's for about 6 weeks but during that time I was losing inches like crazy so I didn't have much to complain about. After that I started dropping again and have even had one month where I got up to a 6lb loss (which is insanely quick for me). There are others, though, who never saw stalls so it just depends on your body.

I think it depends on your body and your self esteem. I'm 5'6 and 135 but I won't wear a bikini and I doubt I ever will. I carry most of my weight in my belly though. I did wear a high waisted bikini last summer though and I was content with that.