Massive weight gain due to health problems

[Kaloki]

I've put on loads of weight, due to chronic back problems. Which in turn makes my back worse. Really I need to get exercising, but don't know what I can do safely without exacerbating my back. (Walking/running is not possible)

Plus I cant afford much due to not being able to work.

Any ideas?

Would swimming be possible for you? Or an aquastretch class?

I never learnt to swim what's aquastretch?

oh sorry Kaloki - I should have come back sooner. Aquastretch is doing excercises in the pool - the one I go to it wouldn't matter if you can't swim as long as you are comfortable being in the pool. - Its e.g moving your legs and arms under the water (back and forwards,across your body),walking in the water basically letting the water support you but at the same time provide a resistance to help you tone up.

Classes vary a lot from gentle to fairly vigorous.(more vigorous ones usually called aquarobics or similar) It might be an idea to contact your local pool/sports centre and explain your problem they might be able to recommend something that would suit you without being harmful.

I do a lot of yoga and other people swear by pilates - but again I don't know whether these would be suitable - they are both gentle but strengthening.

Also a lot of areas do an excercise referral scheme, you ask your GP and they refer you to a gym where a physio will design a programme for you to suit your particular problems/injuries. It is usually reasonable cheap (not like ordinary gym costs). HTH

Another vote for water work out/aquacise!

If you had a good instructor pilates would be great for you