I am 56 and very serious:

I need advise on a couple of things. I would like it from a person that's very knowledgable, hopefully a personal trainer if there is one on here. Bring unemployed now I can no longer afford one.

First if all, I use to be 315# 2 years ago. I'm on a mission towards healthier life style, and a more physically fit person as a whole. I'm doing this for me. I am now 150#. My goal is 135#. I'm almost there. I've lost a whole entire person. That's the good thing. :-)

My problem is not losting weight at the moment, but more about how to get the excess skin back where it should be, firm and toned with a slight defintion (not bodybuilding physique). For instance: Underneath the upper arms, the swinging effect, when I wave or hold them up in movement. I have dimples all over my body, and my tummy just will not firm up regardless how many crunches (3 different kinds) I do. I know this is just goss and I am so self conscience about it. So I dress accordingly, to hide. I look good in my clothes. But.... I wouldn't dare wear a bathing suite at this point. This is probably too much info. lol But I'm seriously deseperate in getting the kind of body I want and maintain it.

I workout 3 to 4 times a week, cardio, weight training, walking, cycling, swimming in the summer months, follow Slim 6 and even Pro 90. I pay close attention to form and alternate muscle groups. I also eat clean, paying close attention to everything I put in my mouth. I log everything I eat so I will stay on track. I also drink lots of water to flush the impurities and to maintain hydration.

What else can I do? I'm at a loss.... Please can anyone help?

I'm in Houston, Texas and would like to have a workout buddy(s), maybe that will help as well.

Thank you in advance for your productive positive advise.

PS: I've had spinal surgery - cervical fusions at three levels (1994), and bad knees, so I can not run. Doctors only want me cycling and swimming. That just isn't getting it.... Due to medications taken in the past, in addition to recovery time from surgery, I have lost a great deal of muscle tissue.

Disclaimer: I will not hold anyone responsible for the advise freely given. I am an adult responsible for my own actions.

hmmm...I'm pretty sure it's not normal for cardio or aerobic exercise to burn muscle mass. Ya might want to see someone about that.

i can't go to the gym without eating. I'm there for 2-3 hours. too long without eating is not good

do you really think that?

gosh everything i have read says i should eat within a half hour of rising. I always have oatmeal in the morning before i work out.

Can u do one for me too.

Is it better to do cardio first and warm up and then go do weight training or vice versa or doesn't matter?

It is a very extreame very closely measured diet that has had some success in treating epilepsy. It is controvertial and should only be used under the strict constant support of a primary care physician.

What I learned about diet is the fact the more I put my focus on it the less hungry I feel . I do not feel hungry or thirsty but If I do not eat properly I feel weak and sometimes dizzy . I think it is all controlled by the brain and if say enough is enough diet becomes easy for you .

I agree...wedding vows have lost their conviction. People these days don't take those vows seriously enough...I didn't when I said them many years ago but the next time around things are going to be different.