New gal

Hiya, my name is Karen and I have just begun my wls journey. I had my first pcp visit ever last friday and he seemed to think I would be a good candidate. I have researched for while now and knew my insurance would require me to have a six month supervised diet. So I started that on January 1st then went to see my pcp. So far I am doin well on the diet part...but after reading many posts I am very worried about the exercise part. I weigh 460 and have major foot joint problems so I am only able to walk about 10 mins and that just doesn't seem like its gonna cut it. I decided to join a gym and take up the pool so hopefully that will help.....Any suggestions please feel free to leave me a note

Welcome Karen! I'm new here too, but this seems like a good place to get some encouragement for the journey. I have really loved going to the pool and doing the water aerobics. There is little impact, and you can go at your own pace. The hardest part for me was the getting into a bathing suit and walking from the locker room door to the pool. If I can do it, you can too, and you might be like me - totally shocked at how much you like being there. I wish the class was longer, and that I had more time in the day to go! I NEVER would have thought that I would have found some physical exercise that I enjoyed, but it has been GREAT. I also have very bad plantar fasciitis, and found relief with orthotic supports. I still have some pain in my left foot, but it is SO MUCH better, and I can walk for a lot longer. It might offer you some help as well. Jennie

Welcome aboard Karen, You have chosen a great message board for sure! We will cheerlead you all the way. Good luck on your beginning of a new life. What a trip.... Hugs Marge

Hi Karen Welcome to OH! You will find so much support here. This is definitely a journey worth taking (at least that's my opinion). I completely understand how you feel about the exercise. I simply started exercising by walking. At 375 pounds, I was only able to do about 20 minutes on the treadmill. While on my pre-op diet, I have continued to exercise and I'm down to 358- ALL I DO IS WALK. It's hard though when you're heavy, so believe me I understand. 10 Minutes is better than 0 minutes. Best of luck to you Lysa

Welcome Karen! I recommend pool walking to get you started. There will be very little joint impact and you will get some exercise. I started at 384 with super bad knee problems. Now, I'm 237 and walk at least 30 minutes a day up to an hour a day. My knees still hurt when the weather changes, but, I'm no longer on a cane. I feel so grateful!!!! Lori

Hi Karen, I think water exercise is the key. When I was 530 lbs I was doing some water therapy for my knees. While it didn;t make the pain go away it did help alot but unfortunatley I have put on more weight since then and the knees are in retty bad shpe now. I di think that exercising in the ater is the best way for SMO do do any exercise though.