[xEmilyx]

Okay, I'm not going to lie to you guys... I haven't worked out since I was a sophmore in high school...(that was in 2005, I feel pathetic!)

So, what would be the best thing for me to do?
What helped you guys get on the ball and just go?
any kind of advice would be fantastic
Thanks in advance!

[JayEll]

Hey xEmilyx,

Gosh! Lots of ideas! How about--

- Going for a walk every day for half an hour.
- Checking out the Walk Away The Pounds exercise videos. Sometimes they are at the library, or you can find them used.
- Visiting your local YMCA. Often they have low-cost membership options, or classes that you can take even if you don't want to join.

Good luck!

Jay

[ronni62]

I think I probably haven't worked out since I was in high school either and that was a lot longer ago for me than you but I've just started with walking and not very far either, just 1/4 to 1/2 mile about 3 times a week (had some back and knee issues when I started my plan and I should say, I really hate to exercise). So, I know walking is doable and easy for almost anyone to start out. If you have access to a weight bench, some muscle-building work helps too. We moved ours to the living room, so the boys could get in shape for football and since it's handy, I've been trying things on it as well-makes me feel really good for some reason We can't afford a gym membership or anything like that so I just do what's free and easy for me.

[Lori Bell]

Just remember you don't have to start a new "diet" plan and a rigid exercise regime all in the same week. (or month...or year for that matter). Get to know your diet first. There are very few people who can jump in head first and change *ALL* their bad habits at once.

I really love what ronni62 said. Most regular people can't afford a gym membership or a personal trainer. Stick to your budget and don't go broke trying to lose weight. Save the cash for some darling new clothes. You can lose weight and build muscle for free. Don't get caught up in the "diet industry" Walk....walk....walk, stairs, stairs, stairs.

[PhotoChick]

Pick up a couple of books (if you don't want to buy them, try your local library first). Two I'd recommend are Body for Life and New Rules of Lifting for Women. They'll give you a lot of ideas and information about working out as well has laying out some plans that you can follow (or use to create your own plan). When you're new to it all, it helps to have that kind of guideline so you don't feel like you're just flailing around.



.

[nods]

The two things that I used (pre-gym) was the Biggest Loser DVDs (they are great, they will challenge you but they won't kill you.) I got mine for less than 10 dollars and two hand weights for 3 dollars each.

The other thing is the Couch to 5 K program. All you need is pair of sneakers and the courage to take the first step. Once you do, it gets so much easier. Running is great because its not only a great exercise, but it gets you outside (even in the cold) and reminds you how awesome things like hiking, camping, paying outdoor sports etc. are. Its a psychological as it is physical.

And the program is great. If you are thinking...UGH, I HATE RUNNING...honestly, so did I, but this program makes it easy! I used to be the kid that would stay home sick from school during the fitness test day when we had to run the mile in gym class! Now I'm up to 2 miles a day!
(And I smoke, but don't tell anyone...shhhhhh)

Check out the Exercise threads for the Couch to 5 K program but its highly recommended

[xEmilyx]

Thank you guys so much for your advice

I will take a lot of it to heart. You guys have been super helpful and this is only my 3rd day on this site lol.