X-Post: LDL/HDL Ratio and Weight Lifting

My cholesterol's down to 179 after being well into the 200's. Woohoo!

So, here's my concern -- and I'm asking y'all because my docs are out frolicking for the holidays -- my triglycerides are good, but my HDL/LDL ratio isn't so great: HDL = 37, LDL = 129. My HDL is only 3 points below the lowest number it should be (at or equal to 40), but my LDL is 29 points higher than the highest number it should be (below 100).

Traditionally, it's aerobics that get the ratio in line, but I loathe aerobics and I'm grinding bone-on-bone in my right knee. I'm a former weight lifter and I plan to start lifting again after I'm cleared for ab work in mid-January (I'll substitute leg lifts and horizontal leg pushes for squats and lunges). Anybody in here have experience with getting their good/bad ratio in line with weight lifting only?

Had a heart condition for years so I follow some of this stuff.  Really only exercise can raise the HDL.  It is the best thing for raising it period.  The other thing that will raise it slightly (and just slightly) is Niacin...B-3.  The problem with Niacin is there can be flushing...Which I hate.  In a few months your weight should (will) be down and your next labs should show great improvement for both HDL and LDL.
Since you are bone on bone, I would think things like swimming and bicycling could work.  Don't go hog wild and watch for the signs of dehydration...But those may work.  Since you're in LA it should be a lot easier to find a swimming hole for your issue.  Good luck and keep us updated on what exercise you found that works.  I'll just mention that post WLS I went from one sport to another to find my groove...Basketball, tennis, golf, racquetball, jogging, walking.  I have a bad back.  Ended up with biking...Just me.

Thanks so much for responding. My docs are back in the office today, and they agreed that in a few more months my HDL and LDL will be greatly improved, even with very moderate exercise.