Anyone trying to gain weight yet still exercise?

mason204

Hi all:

I'm on a chemo right now that allows me to do more and that includes some light exercise.  I joined a gym about 2 weeks ago but I CANNOT lose anymore weight.  I've lost 35 lbs over the past year and am now sitting at 115lbs at 5'7".  I want to do cardio but too much will cause me to lose weight.  My muscle tone is shot and I'm trying to rebuild the muscle I lost over the years of being so sedentary.

I know it sounds like an enviable position to be in but, trust me, after going through chemo SEVEN TIMES in six years, I don't wish this on anyone.  Chemo's hard enough the first time but after a while it really does take a toll on your body.

I'd like to know if there's anyone else out there trying to stay healthy through exercise but dealing with the challenges of GAINING weight.

Cheryl.

P.S.  I'm an ER/PR- girl so I don't have weight gain issues due to hormonals.

redspark3

Hi Mason,,

I also am trying to gain weight. I'm 5' 7" as well and weigh 105lbs.(I've always been this thin) but it's been a struggle lately to keep myself at 105. I am active b/c I'm a dog walker and it comes with the territory. So, I probably walk about 3-5 miles a day.

  But, I agree with ivorymom, get alot of protein as it is supposed to help put on weight.

For me, I took remeron, which is an anti-depressant and I gained 35 lbs from taking it. The side effects of it that most do not like, are it makes you sleepy and HUNGRY. So, I don't know if that's something that you're into or if you just want to do it naturally. I'm going to start taking it again on a regular basis b/c I get worried when I weigh so little. 

Good Luck! 

ElaineD

Another one trying to gain weight-and finding it so hard. I struggle to eat anything at all for about 10 days post chemo, so try very hard to make up for it when my appetite returns.Was interested to see that ivorymum recommended exercises for back and legs-this is good news for me, as my legs are one area where the weight seems to drop off. My legs look pitiful at the moment so I would dearly love to work on them-so thanks for the advice. Incidentally, one of my Xmas presents was a wii-so hoping that adding in some of these exercises will help. It's good to have something wihich encourages me to exercise in a structured way whenever the mood takes me. Every little helps?