Hi Christy! The smoking is a HUGE accomplishment...don't underestimate that!
I got denied a few times so ended up starting my workouts before surg.when frankly I had no intention of doing so til post op. Glad I did. I joined a YMCA, started with water areobics( I love to swim)and it's painless and you don't noticably sweat! I added about20 mins.of the machines 2 days a week in addition to the pool and quickly-and amazingly,progressed to 10 miles on land and 2 by water 3-4 days per week plus 2-3 days of water aerobics. I have my husband going with me on the weekends. I love it. I think the wonderful retired women I met in class helped. They were warm, welcoming,non judgemental...and I am missed when not there. Try not to set a huge goal. try for 20 minsw. 2-3x per week doing something you enjoy, swimming, dancing OR join a class with your kids if you have them... there are some fun family classes out there. My husbands ins. reimburses us for part of our membership too as an added bonus... something to check into. You know the old adage,... the longest journey begins with the 1st step... sure true for me and have to force myself to get moving each day... I love doing it but I need to push myself to get up and going. It's been way worse since surgery too.