Starting a program

Okay so i really shouldn't be a newbie at this but I am.  I am 6 years post surgery, and still don't have a good exercise routine.  At first I did a whole lot of exercise and wound up putting my health at risk and so my doc said I had to stop for a while.  Then I just kept keeping putting it off for a while, started back up and got pregnant and had to stop for my whole pregnancy (bed rest) and until I reagained my strength, now I just don't know how to fit it in.  I'm a single mom and working out with an 18 month old is not easy.  (wish I could count running after him as my exercise)  I really want to start a good program and possibly walk/run in the Race for The Cure this fall.  Any ideas how to get started???  Thanks

If it is possible to find a gym that offers child care while you work out, that would be one good option.  There really are quite a few out there that do.  Otherwise, walks with a stroller can work wonders.  Even if you end up wanting to run, there are lots of strollers for runners.  I see people with them in races all the time.  Not sure what else to add, unless you can find someone you know who would be willing to trade babysitting time. Linn

I know where you are coming from. Both of my pregnancies pretty much had me on limited activity, and I started really bad habits during that time, gaining a total of 60lbs from my pre-pregnancy #1 weight. I've just now gotten back on the bandwagon again, and while it's harder than when I was newly post-op, it's still working.  In a month, I've dropped 10lbs. Most Y's have childcare that is included in membership... alot of gyms do too.  And while you are at the gym, and your kiddo is being watched by someone else.. it's YOU time.  I don't know about you, but I need all the ME time I can get.. so my gym time serves as that. Also, most gyms/Y's have orientations with a fitness specialist that can help get you started.  Just don't start too hard or too fast.. otherwise, you could hurt yourself and decide not to go back. Good luck.. if you need someone to talk to, just PM me.