Hello all,

I'm a new member....just saw this and thought I would jump in an introduce myself and tell you a little about myself. I've been overweight all my life. (I;m sure I am not alone here) I have severe lower back problems and I need to have surgery. I need to lose about 100 pounds for that to happen. I am currently in a medical assisted weight loss program. Nursing coaches, regular doctor visits, visits with a diatician, a physical trainer and group therapy sessions. I just went through a bunch of tests to make sure I was physically ok to start this program. I officially start the program the 22nd of Jan, but have already started eating well. I just need to start exercising now, but I have limitation because of my lower back problems. Anyone else out there with lower back issues? What kind of exercise do you do? I was told to got to the pool, which is probably what I will do, but I could always hear different ideas as to how to exercise that won't hurt my back more than it already is.

I look forward to getting to know people here...looks like a very supportive place.

ok...take care....

Welcome! You might take a look at the Goal section--look for Charles78's posts there. He has lost a lot of weight and he started it all in a medically supervised diet.

I agree that the pool will be the best for your sore back. You can stay in the shallow end and just walk in the water--the resistence from the water makes you work harder to get around. Water aerobics can be fun, too. Regular walking can do wonders as well~as long as you're moving!

You're right~this is a very supportive place! Come back often for bits of advice! Good luck to you.

Glad to have you join us. Wherever you decide to pop-in, I know you will be welcomed with a great big HI and

There is a special Dieting with Obstacles Forum here on 3FC -- CLICK HERE -- you might want to take a look at. It's always great to chat with others who share the same, or similar situations as you . . . seems to help make things easier, somehow.

You have definitely taken a first, and very important step, in that long journey to better health and fitness, JIGGY. You won't reach your goals overnight . . . but you will reach them. Have a great moving and shaking kind of evening, chickie.