Hi All,

It has been a while since I posted because I find it painful to read about everyone else's success (I really am very happy for all) when I am struggling to lose every ounce; I feel like such a failure. On my good days I look at the upside of having lost what I have, but I guess now is bad because I have lost only a pound or two in the last two months. I have only lost a total of around 30-35 pounds in 10 months. I do have restriction (better in the AM) and I do eat less; I just don't lose weight. At any rate, Alex suggested that I try weight training, and I have read that it increases metabolism. I have been hypothyroid since I was 19, and I have a resting metabolic rate over 1800--which is horrible. So....I am looking to increase my metabolism. I do exercise regularly in water. I want to include some weight training, but I want to do it in the water because I have had back surgery and am restricted as to what I can lift. I would appreciate any advice. I do go to a health club, and I know they have water weights and ankle wraps and water bells. Any suggestions? And please know that I am really happy for all of you who have wonderful weight loss success.

Sultana, please don't be discouraged! You're doing great! Hagatheresa and La Madam (Michelle) both do water exercises. I bet they can give you some good ideas. That is easier on your joints too. Hang in there and come talk w/ people "all in the same boat" when you can. Best of luck to you!

Sultana, this is a very informative website about women's weight training. Hope it's encouraging to you....stumptuous.com/weights.html It's for women by a woman.

Hi Sultana!!

Water weight training is a great idea! Do you have access to any professional advisors where you swim? Maybe there's a personal trainer you can engage for just one or two sessions to really teach you the right way to do various exercises. It really helps to have that guidance.

Nice to see you here!! :)

Sultana, hang in there. You might be one of those people who starts off losing slowly (I'm one of those people myself, when I diet and exercise), then BAM! suddenly, the weight will start falling off faster than you want it to. You say you only lost 30-35 pounds- I ask you, isn't it great that those pounds are gone, instead of gained? Please be proud of yourself for this accomplishment and don't get discouraged. You're doing great!

The Stumptuous site is fabulous; thanks, Marie, for letting us know about it. I'm just starting to use weights again (I, too, have back trouble) and love the common-sense advice and smarty-pants attitude of the site. I didn't find anything on Water weights. However, you may be able to modify traditional weight-training exercises -- on land -- to avoid injury.

One great thing about weight training: It does increase your metabolism, not just during the exercise itself, but by increasing the proportion of muscle to fat in your body.