My start weight was 316. I'm down to 282 & wondering what type of working out for cardio others this size do. I have a bad back & knee problems, likely all weight related. Hopefully as I lose these issues will get better, but in the meantime I'm not sure what I should be doing for cardio. Even brisk walks really hurt my back Any suggestions? I want to do something until I get down to a more comfortable weight.

Thank you all for your insight & inspiration...this site & the wonderful people on it have been my lifeline throughout this process!!!

Do you have access to a pool? Swimming laps is very good for exercise and easy on the joints. If you have a gym membership they may also have aqua-fit classes.

Otherwise, I would say walking is your best bet - I did a ton of walking post-op before I was cleared for full exercise.

I too have knee and ankle problems and walking hurts! I find that using the elliptical is much easier for me! Good luck!

Water exercise is great! or the life cycle bikes are good too!

If you have access to a gym:

elliptical

stationary bike, recumbent at first maybe

pool if they have one

If no gym membership:

Go to a local running store and have them do a gait analysis. They will then recommend a shoe and maybe an insole that will likely reduce your back pain while walking. The gait analysis should include frame by frame video (usually on a treadmill) that shows how your foot lands and moves as you walk.

If no money for above options:

Look into beginner aerobics or body weight exercises on you tube, then copy at home. Body weight exercises are an excellent way to get the process started, and can take you a long way!

Best of luck on your journey!

Dave

My start weight was 316. I'm down to 282 & wondering what type of working out for cardio others this size do. I have a bad back & knee problems, likely all weight related. Hopefully as I lose these issues will get better, but in the meantime I'm not sure what I should be doing for cardio. Even brisk walks really hurt my back Any suggestions? I want to do something until I get down to a more comfortable weight.

Thank you all for your insight & inspiration...this site & the wonderful people on it have been my lifeline throughout this process!!!

I wanted to let you know that I was right where you were once upon a time. It does get better! I have bad knees due to being so heavy for so long, but here I am today constantly staying fit and running... that's right RUNNING!! It will happen for you!

When I was your weight, with my knee issues I spent most of my time burning calories by walking a lot. You may need to find some more comfortable shoes, and that could have a greater impact on keeping the pain away. It did for me. I switched my shoes to good fitting New Balance or Asics cross trainers. They are some really great shoes!! Also, I did do some swimming in the Summer time. Though as others have mentioned if you can find a gym with a heated pool, you will find it very easy on the joints and whoa is it a great calorie burner.

And again, the elliptical is a Fluid motion, and though it's not the best for our bodies to do all the time but it is a wonderful calorie burning tool for those of us with bad joints.

Hugs and good luck! You got this.