Joining the gym - morbidly obsese

[helptogetfitter]

I’m 23 stone, 5ft 9 - dress size 26-28 .

I was offered a gym referral through occupational health for my mental well-being (not to lose weight specifically) .

I’ve nipped down to the gym today having put it off for weeks, and they’ve suggested I try swimming in the first instance, there’s a women only session once a week . Seemingly only about 8-10 women go.

I’m so bloody nervous . I am massive, horrendously unfit (I get out of breath/sweaty just going for a walk) and scared of exercising - dyspraxic and very unconfident in myself . Take panic attacks at times .

The gym/staff are lovely, very reassuring and kind and welcoming and I’m sure it will be fine but has anyone been in this position before?

Why not try aqua aerobics? I'm obese (size 22, 5ft 2) and go 3 times a week. The classes have an age range of about 40 to about 75 (I'm 63). There are some slimmer women, some much fatter than me - but nobody takes any notice. We chat, and nobody looks at anyone else. The best bit - it's exercising in the water, so we don't get sweaty.