I am a 5"7 black woman with hiv and herpes simplex 1 and have chronic back problems due to being overweight and having large bust. I want to exercise but when I start to do walking i get a back pain within 15-30 mins. I have always been big boned since birth. I feel that I have no option but to buy a treadmill for home to rest comfortably in my home. I have no problems with my diet just how I exercise.

I am sorry you are having such problems with back pain. I hear that a lot in my travels from women with HIV who have had enlargement of their breasts after taking HAART. Some have had their doctors justify a breast reduction surgery paid by Medicare/insurance due to back pain issues.

Exercising at home is a good thing but many people need the extra motivation of being around other people to work out. Many end up using their home equipment to dry clother after laundry!

Treadmills are good but I like the elliptical trainers better because of their lower impact capability (if you go to Academy, ask them to show you the elliptical trainers)

Also, make sure that you have your doctor check your hormones (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, thyroid) to ensure that you are OK. If you have defficiencies, your doctor can order a customized cream just for you through this pharmacy that specializes in women's health http://www.womensinternational.com/ Good luck Nelson Vergel