Hi Jackie,

Ten years ago I used to be at the gym working out 7 days a week 2 to 3 hours a day. I loved it - it was my addiction. Then I injured my spine and had to cut back on my workout and eventually had to stop altogether because of the problems my spine injury was causing with my legs and feet.

I just had spinal fusion surgery 5 weeks ago and am looking forward to being able to return to the gym. Do you have any suggestions on how to re-start my workout program keeping my specific surgery in mind? I have about 15 pounds I would like to loose and also want to focus on core strength.

I’ve recently decided to loose weight after having my baby three years ago, unfortunately after 5 months i’ve only lost around 13 pounds (started at 170, steady at 158lbs)and plateau out. My biggest problems are my hips (biggest area)and lower abdominal. I work out with weights and do carido, however the harder i workout the harder it is to eat lite. What do you recommend.