Hi Mandy, I'm Jennifer! I am 21 and also starting out on losing weight. I have a tip for you that may or may not help. Go to the humane society and look for a dog that would fit your lifestyle (wether your home a lot or not, lots of space or apartment etc) There are lots of factors involved in getting a dog and you really have to think it over. But on the up side, you now HAVE to go for a walk at least once a day. You have a protector for those of us in the less safe areas. He/She will be your constant companion in losing weight - walking with you or jogging with you when you work up to it. I got a dog for this a couple months ago. We live in government housing so moderate sized yard. Two babies (one and two) so needed to be a family dog. My husband is gone a lot sometimes over half the year (another reason I wanted a dog) so needs to be protective. I got a beautiful half golden retriever half shepherd dog. We named her Kia. She is such a blessing! She doesn't care what I look like to start off with, and I don't feel so self concious walking around my neighborhood with her. Because her walks are also potty breaks we often stop which is good for me just starting (not very fit

) I jog with her as much as I can, walk the rest. If it's feasible for you, give it a thought.