When I first moved to Arizona as a 13 yr old, I hooked up with a scout troop. We spent years hiking, camping, and so forth. All over the state. I loved it. When I married, that stopped. I moved away from the state. Upon returning, I injured my back in an accident (2 bulging discs).

I am not old (36 next week). I returned to hiking in the last 2 years and have been hiking more and more. I miss backpacking and using what is around me to survive (we used to build lean-tos up in the Rim country and in the Superstitions among other things). A decade of a back injury has left me nervous and anxious about taking up backpacking, but I sorely miss the outdoors- and being away from everything. I am not heavy and have swam a lot to keep in shape. I just worry about how my lower back will hold up.

Good for you. I long to get back out there for longer than 3 or 5 hours of hiking and really get into the meat of this desert I call home.

As for weight loss- it can be a gradual process. Fitday (www.fitday.com) can help you manage what you eat. I use the freebie they offer and have for years. If you can cut sugar and simple carbs (white bread, white rice, etc) that would be a good start. Carbonation is equally bad for the body in great quantities. If you aren't into water, use crystal light. That stuff is great! No calories. Tastes awesome.

As for exercise, walking and stretching are good starts. Eventually you will want to try something like a stationary bike. Or swimming. I lost 20 pounds in the pool (and will never go looking for it). <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Buena suerte! (good luck!)