Hello! Newbie 27yr old, 130 lbs from Chicagoland.

noseovertail

It's about time I introduced myself to the community I suppose :-) I'm a 27 year old female, 5'2", 130 lbs. I have never really worked out in my entire life until very recently. I'm on the small side but I suspect I have a high % of bodyfat. I gain most of my weight in my stomach & hips, much to my dismay. I just bought a tape measurer to do my measurements tonight, I'm pretty nervous to be honest.

I recently had spinal surgery on November 3rd, and I have been in physical therapy for about a month and a half. I gained about 10 lbs since my surgery and I want to lose all of that and then some. I'd like to tone up more than anything and I *really* want to try for a flat stomach, but since I can't do crunches or anything where I bend it's really difficult. I think I'll have to just do a lot of cardio or something?

I am a huge believer in an organic diet. My husband and I love to learn about & dabble with a 100% raw food diet, I really believe that's the healthiest way to live for most people. It's just really hard to go raw in the Chicago winter, it's freezing out and I like my warm meals! I am vegetarian and have been having a really hard time meeting the protein requirements on MFP.

Okay this is long enough & all over the place now... I hope to meet like-minded health conscious (vegetarians would be a plus!) people on here to inspire & help motivate me! If anyone who has had spinal surgery has any recommendations on workouts or anything that would be greatly appreciated as well.

johnmcfarm

Welcome noseovertail, This is a great place to stay motivated! We all have our ups and downs but MFP keeps me going on my "long distance" quest of 95 pounds! See you around the site.

freedMan

Welcome noseovertail!

I would suggest that you get a bodyfat percentage test done to determine your exact BMI. This way you can ensure you are lolsing a healthy amount of weight! Once you have that number in hand, you can get grips on what weight is healthy for you and set it as a goal!

Good luck!

noseovertail

Thanks for the comments. How do I get a bodyfat percentage test? Does that have to be done at the doctor? I'm pretty broke, so I'm limited in what I can buy right now.

freedMan

You can get it at some clinics and hospitals, or gyms, but I go to a local college because it costs $20. They usually provide it cheaper because its practice for the students! If you have a college nearby, look for their heath or performance lab!