Hi, Free2Be. I'm on my way back down to maintenance weight at the moment, but I can speak to the exercise questions from a long way back. I'm convinced that regular exercise has helped me avoid major weight re-gain, even at times when I've been less-than-perfect in my commitment to healthy eating.
History: in 1995, on the threshold of my 50th birthday, I reached my lifetime high weight of 192. Determined not to give in to a fat old age, I set my course: low-cal/low-fat eating plus exercise. In one year, I lost 50 lbs. and I've never gained it back.
Later, I switched to low-carb, which works better for me. I've had a few weight ups and downs since 2003--but small ones. And the one consistent effort of my healthy life is exercise.
My best exercise advice:
--find something you actually LIKE to do.
--choose a time when you can ALWAYS do it (this is very important!) If you don't set aside a sacred time for your exercise, you will always find a "good" excuse not to do it.
I've always liked exercising at home with videos. Not wimpy! Trust me! If you want to explore the options, go to
www.collagevideo.com The best collection of videos for all types of exercise. You can exercise at home, in a small space, at your own time. Perfect!
Currently, I do weight training classes at the YMCA twice or three times a week. I like the loud music, the instructor counting reps, and the people I meet there. I'm a social gal. I don't run anymore, but I have a majorly good pair of walking shoes, and an iPod loaded with peppy tunes, including some vigorous walking tapes, some with inspirational messages included (from collage) When it's just too dang cold to walk outside, I head for the treadmill.
One of my walking tapes is Classical music reworked to a specific BPM (beats per minute). It would probably drive a music major nuts, but I think it's great. Moonlight Sonata at 140 bpm? Bring it on!
I don't always "want" to show up at the Y. But one hour later, I always feel like Wonder Woman. I won't say "better than sex"--but for a fabulous feeling all over your body, resistance training is IT.
When did I know I'd actually succeed? Well, I have to make that decision over and over again. But remembering miserable me at 192 is highly motivating.
Best wishes.