Hey Dee Dee - I agree on using bodfat % over pounds. The scale can drive you insane. As I get further out I plan to just get my BF done every couple weeks to a month. I also agree with Earl on the goal setting. It is so important Check out this post. It's on an old fitness msg board I ran and it talks about where to start with goal setting. Taken fom Bill Philips: http://p073.ezboard.com/feqpowerfulbodiesandmindsfrm4.showMessage?topicID=1.topic excerpt: "Goals come from dreams but it is important to understand the difference. When you accomplish a goal it helps your dreams become even more inspiring, which in return creates even more goals, and desire. When you begin the process of setting and achieving goals, you immediatly begin creating grander dreams. And that creates Optimisim, which feels pretty darn good in case you have forgotten. When you are optimistic you can't help but focus on the future. It's just so exciting you can't wait to get there. Set goals that are ambitious yet attainable. Find an example of someone you want to be like. Someone who was in your condition and take a look at what he or she was able to achieve. This gives you proof that it can be done. Read your goals often and practice eliminating doubt from your tone of voice. Don't discribe your future success as something you "hope" to achieve. Picture it as something you will absolutely accomplish. " Your doing great and an inspiration! Thanks!

Hi Sandy! Welcome! It's great to see someone else from Alabama on here. Where in Alabama are you at? I'm just outside of Birmingham myself. I don't see anything wrong with adding some light weights to your walking, but take it easy. Better to start off slow than risk an injury. Everyone here is great and they have lots of knowledge and experience. Post often, we're glad to have you. Jennifer

Hi Dee Dee I keep saying the same thing. I didnt gain up to 302 lbs overnight and it is going to take awhile to get it off. Im trying to learn patience, after almost 4 weeks I think I should have lost more than 20 lbs. Im just focusing on staying positive and giveing it some time. I cant offer any words of wisdom since I am just beginning, just wanted to say hello and let you know you have done fantastic!!! I can only hope my journey will be as good. Sandy

I only walked 1 1/4 mile today....started to rain! Boy I will tell you one thing....I really had to push myself this am to get my butt out of bed! Went to the gym had a great workout.... cable rows.....12 reps @70, 12 reps @70, 12 reps @80 preacher curls...12 reps@35, 10 reps@40, 10 reps @45 incline bicep curls...12 reps@10, 12 reps@15, 10 reps@20 I must say just doing these on the incline busted my chops having to go way down in weight. Incredible!!!! regular bicep curls...12@15, 12@20, 12@25 superset tricep push down & tricep cable.....10@50 X3,10reps@70,80,90 lat pull downs....10@60, 10@70 hammer curls....10@12, 10@15, 10@20 Now it is time to get ready to go to get the rest of the things for my youngest's birthday party....She is 4 tomorrow! Waaahhhh! I am getting older!!! Hope all is well with everyone.

welcome Sandy The rest nailed it, I walked nothing else for months. I "played" with weights and cardio until about nine months then got serious. I think "After you have been released" that when the time is right you will find what works for you. I believe weight training is a must for us to really achieve success.