So at 280 pounds still and 8 months post op I have just joined a gym. I bought myself a pair on non $6 walmart sneakers (who knew sneakers had arches) and loaded up my little ipod. I have gone 4 nights this week after work doing 1 mile walking at a 2.4 speeed on the treadmil and 1/2 mi. on the recumbant bike or vise versa, and surprisingly I dont hate it. I didn't want to eat dinner then go but was also scared of having a blood sugar issue (happened at water aerobics twice) since lunch is usually a salad at 1pm and gym is about 6-7p. 2 nights I tried a greek yogurt at 4pm and that worked fine as did having 4-5 bites of supper and reheating the rest when I get home. I tried about 3 minutes on the eliptical last night just for fun .. wow does that take a little coordination which I'm not sure is my area of expertise.. kind of an akward feeling, but didn't rule it out completely. I hope to start a few of the weight machines next week as well as a mile on each which I think is pretty do able .. Any tips on how I can get the most bang for my buck at the gym?

I am thinking about Water aerobics...how did you like them?

First off good for you for joining a gym and somewhat enjoying it!! I would advise working with a trainer at least once to get a routine. Usually they give you a trainer at no charge when you first start to show you how to work on the machines. Use that perk if available.

Good Luck!