Must exercise, but nervous around kids

Hi Chris, My BMI is around 80 now, and has been as high as 90.  I can definitely relate to how you feel about kids (and their adults).  I have had several upsetting moments in public when some kid points out my belly.  It seems to happen in Target more than anything else.  The good parents tell their kids its not nice to talk about people, or at least steer the kids away.  The bad parents laugh.   I try to remember they are just kids, and kids don't have a filter.  Usually in my case, they have been really young and they didn't mean anything.  They were just genuinely curious or amazed.  I've had kids ask my if there was a baby in my big belly, etc.  I used to run away or avoid public places all together but that's just no life.  Now, (most of the time) I move on and don't let it bother me.  They are right, I am fat.  I am probably one of the fattest people they've ever seen.    Gyms are hard.  I've avoided them for a few years, which is unfortunate because I actually like working out in the gym.  Instead I found a local park and walk early in the morning before work.  There usually aren't many people around, and if so they are old and nice.  Recumbent bikes are also nice.  Watch the weight limit - I found one that holds 350 (most non-commercial bikes only say 250 or 300), but I weigh 420.  So far I've ridden it without problems but you never know.   The most important thing, I personally believe, is to carry yourself with confidence.  People pick up on that and treat you a little better.  You have every reason to be confident - you are doing a brave thing, getting yourself healthy.  I think making that decision is a major hurdle and you should be extremely proud.  And screw anyone who doesn't think so, its not really their business anyway.

A great post Dunny - thanks. I never thought about kids not having a filter. What they think, usually starts to come out of their mouth. Hopefully, they will grow up to be responsible adults and then will teach their children to be the same. But, as we both know, so many children don't grow up to be adults. They stay the same and don't change. They look at others  but don't see inside - if you know what I mean. They still laugh and make fun of others which makes them feel important. Good for you for just moving on and not letting some little monster get to you. I'll try to do the same. I'll carry myself with confidence and dignity. Thanks again Chris

Hi Chris, My name is Jenny btw, but you can call me dunny if you want to :) You are absolutely right about some people never growing up!  And about making fun of others to make yourself feel important.  Its great to realize that, because now when someone makes a comment I am just going to picture them as a rotten little 4 year old!   People are always so critical of others - and I agree with you, I think mainly its because it makes them feel better about themselves.  I'm guilty of it too, I've just learned to keep it to myself.  Part of the human condition I guess. Good luck at the gym!  You can do it!  (and in a year or so when I think I can't walk into my gym, I'll remember that you did it and I'll be fine) If I can ever afford a gym!  Take care, Jenn

Hi Chris, I'm just checking back to see if you have been to the gym.  I'm thinking of you and praying for you!  You can do it! Also, don't forget to post your exercise update in the gym post.  We are all pulling for you! Jennie

Hi Jennie, Well I haven't been to the gym yet, but I did go to a family outing this weekend. I went to my sister's and her husband's house the other day for a party. I hadn't been up there in almost 5 years, so this was very different for me. I hadn't seen either of my sisters for a while and they were shocked at how much weight I'd lost. I was able to move around quite easily and actually felt close to normal. So my next challenge is the gym.The hard part is just starting, so once I complete that step, then I'm on my way.  Thanks for checking in! I'll keep you updated. Chris