The Fat Girl's Guide to Living

The most gifted green thumb I know (Photo by Holly Mason)

All the green-thumbed ladies! (All the green-thumbed ladies. . .) Now put your trowels up!

Apologies, readers, as I’m working through a bit of a Beyoncé earworm today. But it’s the perfect time of year to crank up a favorite tune on your iPod and get outside to soak up the blue sky, sunshine and smell of the grass growing right under your feet. For girls with the aforementioned green thumbs (regretfully, I cannot count myself among you, since I can kill even a fake plant in two days or less), the season is also ripe for planting, weeding and all manner of earthy things that make me glad I live in a big-city apartment.

Overweight women sometimes struggle with activities like gardening because of joint problems, discomfort sitting or kneeling on the ground, or challenges lowering themselves down to dirt level and standing back up again without good leverage. And yet, many women appreciate the therapeutic nature of gardening — not to mention being surrounded by colorful blooms and enjoying the fruits (and vegetables) of their  home-grown labors. As always, we at FGG cringe at the idea of putting off the things we love because of challenges in mobility or logistics — so consider today’s guide our love letter to each of you earth mamas who are ready get digging in the dirt, already!

Comfortable gardening apparel for plus sizes

While most women will agree that the garden isn’t the place for a fashion show, dressing for the elements is important. Footwear and gloves that protect from injury are a must — especially when handling chemical products (like enriched fertilizers) or thorny/prickly plants, or when working in soil that may contain sharp objects or recycled glass mulch. Before you reach for your Crocs, remember that although they’re ridiculously comfortable, water-friendly and accommodating for wider feet, they’re made from lightweight material that can be easily punctured by sharp objects. And depending on where you’re working, turning all of that soil can unearth errant nails, broken glass, sharp sticks, etc. Consider a tougher, more resilient shoe like a thick-soled clog or some waterproof galoshes — and don’t be afraid to get colorful. The Original Muck Boot Company offers durable, flexible and weatherproof clogs, boots and shoes in women’s sizes 4-13 (we liked the pink houndstooth and plum vine designs). Wide openings for tucking in pants can also be godsends for plus-size women with wide calves. The spring green cheerfulness of this pair from Sloggers (up to size 10) was almost enough to make me want to grab a Garden Weasel. Other fun finds include the Ladybug Clogs from Ranger (available in sizes 5-11 and in basic colors or bright, outdoorsy designs).

When it comes to gardening gloves, women with larger hands have lots of options for digging in safety and style. If your hands or joints are sensitive, a pair of ergonomic gloves in sizes S-XL, while pricey ($37.99), may be worth the investment. For a more festive day in the yard, Mud Gloves® come in loads of bright, fun colors and sizes from XS-XL. Plus, the breathability and coated palm and fingers for gripping traction are paired with features like UV protection and aloe moisturizers. Ultimately, selecting the right type of gardening glove is more important than the pretty design, so make sure you take into consideration the work you’ll be doing. You’ll want a different glove for handling poisonous plants or chemicals (choose Neoprene) than you will for rough yard work like extreme pruning and moving brush (opt for leather).

Lighten the load with ergonomic gardening accessories

Safe, healthy yard work and gardening involve more than just happy hands and feet. It’s easy to tackle too much or stay in a position that’s hard on joints without realizing the damage done until the next day. Stocking your tool shed with the right ergonomic gardening accessories can make a big difference and keep you feeling your best.

Rather than kneeling directly on the ground, protect your knees with a kneeling pad. Ergonomic kneeling pads can be as simple as a waterproof foam wedge you can purchase at most lawn and garden centers, or they can be more elaborate — and even include reinforced knee areas and a back support option. Some women may feel more comfortable using a kneeling bench or choosing to sit on a rocker seat — this one supports weights up to 350 lbs. Just be sure you try any product first to ensure you feel safe and stable on it.

If you’re moving soil, mulch, supplies or debris around the yard, look for a cart or wheelbarrow that’s easy to maneuver. My friend Holly, the gardening fiend pictured above (and who I swear is a plant whisperer — seriously!), raves about her green Duraworx garden cart from Lowe’s. If pushing is more your thing than pulling a cart, choose one that does most of the heavy lifting for you, sparing your back, arms and legs the stress. Sears offers the Triad™ heavy-duty wheelbarrow, which is said to combine the ease of a cart with the capacity of a ‘barrow. And you can feel good about your garden and yourself by picking a pink ‘barrow with a looped handle (better for pulling/pushing) that helps fund breast cancer research.

Easier up and down to ground level

The fact that most gardening activities take place at ground level can complicate matters for larger women who may have difficulty hunkering down to the ground or standing back up again without holding onto something sturdy for leverage. While every person needs to find the approach that’s right for her, some ideas for overcoming this challenge include wide-base canes or robust, portable step stools that you can grip with both hands and push down on while raising yourself off the ground. Placing a more substantial stool near your garden area may provide the same access to leverage. (Readers: This is a great time to share your own tips for improvising leverage to stand — be sure to hit the comments section at the end of this post!)

If the up-and-down of sitting & standing isn’t a possibility, or if your knees or other joints can’t accommodate extended amounts of kneeling, crouching, bending or sitting low to the ground, another great way to maintain your gardening hobby or passion is through elevated gardening. Constructing raised garden beds elevates the ground level of your soil and plants to make it more accessible from a seated position. Similarly, stand-up gardens (sometimes called tabletop gardens) can be accessed from a standing or sometimes a seated position, making them much more ergonomically friendly. And don’t discount all the creative possibilities that window boxes, planters and hanging gardens provide — you can even grow strawberries and tomatoes from a teeny section of outdoor space!

No matter what your mobility or comfort level, the Web is crawling with additional resources for making gardening more accessible (including dozens of message boards, construction plans, DIY kits and awesome sites like The Able Gardener. Mix and match tips and techniques until you find the garden design and accessories that are right for you. We look forward to hearing from all of our green thumbs out there as your summer gardens progress. . . Now put your trowels UP!

Green-thumbed girls: Share your best fat-girl gardening find, a tip about making yourself comfy on the ground, or a challenge you’ve faced in the yard. And don’t forget to upload your photos to the FGG Flickr Group or leave us a message and a photo on our Facebook page! Fame and glory (since I’m not in charge of prizes) to those whose tomatoes can make Toni’s mouth water.

Skip the frills — give us inexpensive tennis apparel that fits
(image by Hannahblu59)

Hi, do you have any advice on plus-size tennis apparel?  I’ve looked at Junonia but their selection is very limited — and expensive!

It’s true that while Junonia offers a good selection of active apparel designed for plus-sized women — including a collection of QuikWik® tennis gear — their pieces don’t come cheap. My thoughts on Junonia are twofold: First, some of the pricing reflects the old “fat-girl clothes cost more” method that keeps us muttering under our breath every time we whip out our Visa. Second, I have to give it to Junonia: their clothes are well-made and long-lasting. I’m not a tennis player (unless you count Wii Sports, and even then . . . I’m not a tennis player), but all of the active wear I’ve purchased and worn from the company held up long enough for me to wear it to death. While overpricing plus-sized clothes still makes me angry, my experience with Junonia apparel tends to follow the “you get what you pay for” adage.

Turns out, the high cost/few options tennis clothing dilemma doesn’t just exist at Junonia. Plus-size pickings are slim when it comes to tennis shirts, skirts, dresses and shorties, and locating low-cost, plus-size tennis clothes is even more challenging. We found a decent selection of items in extended sizes (up to 3X/24W) at Tennis Hut, and we like the wide array of color choices they provide for most items. Overall, most of their prices came in 25-40% less than comparable Junonia pieces (their shorts and panty collection, in particular, was slightly larger and more reasonably priced). That said, we’re talking about skirts and tanks priced at $42 and $44 (on sale), respectively, as compared to their $59.95 counterparts. Tennis isn’t a cheap sport, but at least these prices are a bit lower.

Lower still: the prices at Ad In Tennis Apparel. We love that this online retailer not only offers active wear (including tennis tops and bottoms) in sizes up to 3X/24W, but they also offer free customization of inseam lengths, sleeve types and fabric choices. What a boon for us girls with longer- or shorter-than-average limbs! Be sure to measure carefully and double check your work before purchasing — custom orders are non-refundable.

Try to shop for sales; many online retailers (like MyTennisStore.com and Junonia’s own clearance section) will offer markdowns as seasons change or when only a few sizes remain in a particular style. Keep your eyes peeled and you might score deals like $51 skirts on sale for $29.99 (size 2X only). And whatever source you choose, make sure you’re still getting the proper fit and moisture protection you need to feel and perform at your best on the court.

Tennis-savvy readers: Help your fellow girls out and tell us which brands and retailers serve LOVE. (Sorry — couldn’t resist!)

Are these Shape-ups fat-girl friendly?

Dear FGG: I keep seeing ads for all these shoes that tone your body just by walking in them. Do they actually work? And are they safe for overweight women to wear? I’m afraid I’ll topple over!

Lately, it’s hard to miss commercials for either the new Sketchers Shape-ups or Reebok’s EasyTone fitness footwear. Although designed very differently, both are based on a similar concept (decreased stability is used to engage and challenge muscles) and are promoted as a faster way to achieve a toned butt and legs, while also losing weight. To test these claims, I trotted into two local shoe stores for some fat-girl field research, where I spoke with a shoe-fitting guru for scoop on whether these shoes live up to their hype.

Sketchers Shape-ups

Although you can purchase these puppies in every style from sandals to boots to standard athletic shoe, two different staff members at my local Lady Foot Locker assured me that the rocker technology on all the shoes was the same — a claim the Sketchers web site seems to reinforce. The signature curved, rocking-horse nature of each Shape-ups sole is designed to mimic the effect of walking on soft ground, where your heel sinks in and your muscles have to work to stabilize the body with each step. The unique design also gives the shoes a platform-like look and feel, adding a couple of inches to the wearer’s height.

After lacing up the black & white “Strength” models a clerk brought out at random for me to try (a design I’d actually consider owning — plus a name that matches my shoulder tattoo), I completed several laps around the store to get a feel for the shoes. Although I felt the “soft sand” comparison immediately, the shoes weren’t uncomfortable to wear; at no point did I feel as though I’d fall over — due to my weight or otherwise. Wearing them definitely forced me to pay attention to how I was walking, which likely affected my posture for the better. And whether it was just the increased emphasis on my stride or the actual science of the shoe, I did feel my calves working harder during the five minutes I tooled around the store.

Ultimately, although I remained curious about the Sketchers and would have loved to give them a lengthy, in-home test run, two things would likely keep me from purchasing them for myself. First, the price tag was steep–$110 for a pair of shoes I couldn’t see myself wearing everywhere due to their just-plain-weird profile. But more importantly, the shoes didn’t seem to offer any allowances for the way my feet behave when I walk. The straightforward arc on the shoe is made for people whose feet land 100% straight ahead and flush with every step, where some people (myself included) have feet that land at an outward angle, and others walk pigeon-toed. Additionally, I could occasionally feel my foot coming down along the outside edge of the sole as I strode, leaving me to wonder if I might at some point hyper-extend or turn my ankle in shoes designed to channel me into walking in a way that conflicted with my foot’s shape and natural tread.

Reebok EasyTone

Rather than an elevated rocking-horse arc on their soles, shoes in the Reebok EasyTone line instead employ what the company calls “balance pods” on the sole and heel to create instability. I took my questions about this shoe straight to an expert — longtime professional shoe fitter (and surname-phobic) José of family-owned and operated Murphy’s Fit shoe store and athletic wear in Evanston, IL. Settled in a comfy fitting chair (which moments earlier had been occupied by local nightly news anchor, Mark Suppelsa as he laced up new kicks), I asked José directly, “Are these types of shoes safe to wear, or will they make a person — especially an overweight person — feel too unstable?”

With a wry smile (I’m guessing he’s fielded this question often lately), José told me I’ve essentially answered my own question with just one key word: Unstable.

Using my own worn-out gym shoe to demonstrate, José walked me through his expert opinion on “toning” shoes: “Only eight percent of people will actually see any real benefit from these shoes,” he said, pausing to laugh at my stunned reaction. “Eight percent of people strike on the outside [of their foot] and stay on the side. They’re called ‘supinators.’ They tend to have a high arch and don’t require a lot of stability from their shoes because their feet never cave in when they walk.” As it turns out, because they keep their weight on the outside edges of their shoes — where the EasyTone balance pods meet regular sole — “they’re the only ones who would ever see ANY results from this shoe. For everyone else, it has the potential to be dangerous.”

Dangerous? Really? “Sixty percent of people strike in the back [of the foot] and roll through at least partially before their foot caves toward center,” said José. These are “pronators,” and I’m apparently one of them, although my feet don’t roll in until the very last minute. “The [EasyTone] shoe isn’t stable for pronators because of the placement of the [balance pod] ball. These people need stability when they walk so they don’t injure themselves.” The final 30% of walkers can be described as “over-pronators” who tend to have flatter feet and lower arches. According to José, these strides don’t strike at the back but instead roll inward immediately, thereby also requiring a shoe with stability. While there’s no “weight limit” on either type of shoe, the unstable feeling they create could be hazardous to anyone more prone to falling or turning an ankle — big girls included.

Ultimately, after trying out the Shape-ups and getting schooled on pronation statistics as they apply to EasyTone designs, I felt very comfortable with my final shoe purchase — a running shoe designed for pronators, complete with a 1/4″ instep wedge to provide stability for my “ballerina feet” (as José described them). While the flashy gimmicks and promises of faster/easier/better toning and weight loss may be alluring — and the shoes may actually work for some — don’t forget that tried-and-true fitness tips are tried-and-true for a reason. Have your feet professionally sized and your walk (also called ‘gait’) evaluated, then invest in a pair of shoes that  provide support where you need it. . . and use them — often!

Have you guinea-pigged a pair of toning shoes? Tell us why you love ‘em or loathe ‘em in comments.

Sarongs spice up a curvy girl’s summer wardrobe (Image by Gummo)

Dear FGG: I love the look of sarongs as bathing suit cover-ups, but they never wrap all the way around my hips, and either one thigh or my whole front is left totally exposed. Am I stuck with “one size fits most” but not me?

I share your pain. “One Size” anything — especially items designed to wrap around the hips, where my body is its fullest — always leave me feeling like I’m trying on doll clothes or shopping in the junior’s section. The good news for full-figured girls with hips, thighs, butts and tummies is that we can absolutely get the comfort and breezy, flirty look of a sarong in sizes that actually fit. All it takes is a bit of savvy shopping.

The sarong (or pareo) is one of the most basic pieces of clothing you’ll encounter; ultimately, it’s just a long, rectangular piece of fabric — that’s it. The creative aspect of the garment comes in both how it’s worn (as a skirt, as a dress, as a cover-up) and how it’s tied. Full-length (to the feet) sarongs are usually about 44″ long, while knee-length skirts stop at about 22″.

As with any plus-sized garment, the key when you’re shopping for a larger sarong is to check the sizing carefully. For example, we found knee-length and ankle-length options at Swimsuits Just For Us, but the widths are 52″ and 56″, respectively, which the site lists as fitting sizes 1X-2X. If your hips are well within those measurements or you don’t mind your skirt being substantially open on the side where it ties (and thus not providing 100% coverage), these options are probably just fine. Other sarongs might be advertised as plus-size but don’t offer width measurements, which makes them risky for larger hips and thighs, as well. If you’re ordering online, make sure you understand and feel comfortable with the return policy when you order in case the garment doesn’t fit.

Because the sarong is so versatile and designed to work with extra fabric, a wider-than-necessary purchase isn’t a terrible thing, so err on the side of extra inches rather than something that’s too small. We like the look of the double-layer sarong pareo wrap skirt from Sabine Silks ($39.99 in sizes that fit up to 6X or 24/26) and the basic colors (and sale prices) of the georgette styles from Sassy Sarongs (66″ wide, from $29.99).

If you’re feeling more of the traditional Polynesian vibe and want something brighter and more floral, options abound at Feedora. Finally, don’t forget to check out our old friend Etsy, home to a number of the most reasonably priced finds in made-to-order dimensions. My favorite was this 70″ x 42″ hand-dyed batik print for only $30 (I’m a sucker for the color combo of chocolate brown and aqua), but you may prefer the same dimensions in orange or purple. — or possibly even this black & white silk ($58.00; 66″ x 26″).

Whichever sarong you choose, this fun and flexible garment that can be worn any way you feel most comfortable and attractive. Have fun experimenting with styling until you find the pattern and tie configuration that’s right for you.

Have a lead on a great source for sarongs that fit or the most fat-girl-flattering tie style ever? Share it with your fellow readers in comments.

Raindrops refrained by davidezartz

Dear FGG: I’m a size 24 and I’m not having any luck finding a cute raincoat for spring at local stores. Got any ideas?

Rainy days can either make you feel dark and gloomy or playful and earthy – it’s all about your attitude. Fortunately, this question led us to a number of cute finds that had us ready to throw on rubber boots and go puddle stomping. Better yet, many are currently marked at sale prices. Win/win!

Depending how dressed-up you want to look, the classic trench coat is always a great option that can take you from spring to fall. While some of you girls might shy away from belted jackets, they’re actually flattering because they highlight your waist (yes, even if it’s thicker), which balances your silhouette and keeps you from looking boxy. The clean, crisp looks offered by TravelSmith (sizes up to 3X or 24/26) and Woman Within (sizes up to 34W) are perfect for wearing to work or on dressier occasions. Be sure to check the sizing chart before purchasing, because not all 3X measurements are created equal. According to the Macy’s sizing chart, for example, their 3X DKNY long rain coat only accommodates a size 22.

For a more casual style, try Junonia’s Cloudburst rain jacket with brim hood (sizes up to 6X) or the packable Anorak rain coat from TravelSmith. Items from the Weather Solutions® line  from Woman Within, are reasonably priced and available in plus sizes to 34W or higher. Opt for a basic Anorak style with drawstring waist and detachable hood, or add some pizazz with a shiny, patent look or an A-line swing and cheerful punch of color.

Finally, consider taking a bold, “new beginnings” approach to the season — stow your dark, heavy winter coat in the closet and step out in a pure white trench with black floral border from Avenue. Available in sizes up to 26 and priced under $60, this flattering coat (yes, big girls can wear white, too!) says “welcome, spring!” all over.

What styles have kept you warm and dry lately, ladies? Leave us a comment describing your rainy-day must-haves.

Keep your head above water in aqua class (image by The Udall Legacy Bus Tour)

Exercise and I have never been good friends. Like many fat girls I’ve met over the years, my gym class experiences were always a torment, and I gravitated toward friends who were more likely to pass time playing cards or watching 90210 reruns than starting a pick-up game of basketball or soccer. Between the sweat, the beet-red face, and the fact that every movement was a struggle, most workouts I’ve tackled as an adult have been faced with gritted teeth and an eagle eye on the clock’s second hand. So when I skeptically accompanied a new weight-loss friend to her fitness center several years ago, I expected to grind through my guest-pass meetings with both treadmill and trainer before scampering back to the safety of my couch – or at least my Tae-Bo videos and closed blinds.

The minute we walked into Galter Life Center, however, the smell of pool chlorine greeted me like an old friend. As a direct result of my Pavlovian response to water of any kind, I walked out of the gym that day with a membership contract and began working out regularly. But for some reason, I never set foot in the pool – the very thing that sold me on joining — until last Friday. Years after previously abandoning my membership and gaining back the weight I’d lost, I put every fear and excuse aside and joined my best friend in the pool for my first-ever water aerobics class . . . and it was love at first splash.

Good for what ails you

Unlike land-based exercises where you support your entire body weight (and the accompanying impact on your joints) during your workout, water-based workouts provide cardio, strength and flexibility training opportunities without placing the same stress on your body. The resistance of the water actually increases the effectiveness of the workout while cushioning and supporting your body. A 200-pound woman will burn an average of 360 calories during an hour of water aerobics; for a 300-pound woman that number skyrockets to 540 calories. And because you’re surrounded and supported by the water, there’s no way to fall or land awkwardly during a movement.

Best of all, if sweat is one of your workout nemeses, grab a pool noodle and rejoice: You can’t tell that you’re sweating in the pool, and the water provides a cooling effect. It takes almost nothing for me to get red-faced and overheated, but I flipped, kicked and lunged through the entire routine feeling refreshed even though my heart rate was up and my muscles were warm.

Anything but a beauty contest

One of the things I’ve noticed over the years is that many water aerobics participants tend to be older or overweight, likely because of the benefits described above. The obvious upside to such a demographic is that no one really stands out. Our class involved approximately 15 participants of varying ages and sizes. My friend and I were definitely the youngest in the pool, but there was no awkwardness, and everyone was too busy focusing on his or her own balance and technique to spend much time watching others. Another perk: once you’re chest-deep in the water, only the instructor can really see your lower body or movements. Unlike some aerobics or step classes I’ve taken where I’ve felt conspicuous because of my weight – despite being fully clothed – this setup didn’t make me feel self-conscious at all.

Look, ma – I’ve got stamina!

Because I’ve managed to get myself into pretty rotten shape, one of my biggest fears was that I wouldn’t be able to complete a full 60-minute class, much less keep up with the pace and the intensity. Sixty minutes on a treadmill or elliptical would kill me. So imagine my surprise when I still had energy, breath and strength left after 20, 40, 50 minutes of water exercise!

Like traditional land-based aerobics, we never did any one movement long enough for me to burn out. Instead, the instructor (who – bonus! – was a down-to-earth woman of about 30, with a normal figure and no ridiculous cheerleader schtick) led us through a variety of alternating sets from her position on the pool deck. Accompanied by her own mix of cardio jams (pretty decent except for that awful “Mambo No. 5”), we warmed up for 10 minutes with marches, kicks in front, kicks to the corner and travels left and right.

When the workout picked up, Instructor Megan was careful to model and remind us of ways to raise or lower the intensity of our movements with each new action. Almost every movement included a variation that allowed for more limited range of movement. Lessons learned: Jumping jacks are easier in the water. Reversing momentum (beginning to walk backward when you’ve previously been traveling forward) is far more challenging than it looks. “Rocking horse” movements are as baffling as they sound. Your butt and hips don’t jiggle when you run or jump underwater. And moving into deeper water will increase the water resistance, and therefore a movement’s level of difficulty.

What surprised me most was that the cardio portion was a breeze compared to the challenge of working with the aqua barbells, which we received about 35 minutes into the hour. Although arm movements like pushing the water out or down had been incorporated all along, the added resistance of holding down the floaty barbells during the same motions was more than I expected. By the time our 15 minutes of barbell work (which included several movements to target the abs while floating with arms to our sides) was completed, I was ready for the 10-minute cool down and stretch. I left the pool feeling tremendously accomplished and my muscles continued to feel nice and well-used for the next 48 hours.

Dress the part

There’s really no way around the fact that water aerobics = swim-friendly attire, which is what kept me from suiting up until now. My approach to swimming tends to involve as much covering as possible. Swim dresses with skirts. Over-sized t-shirts on top. I haven’t owned a skirt-free suit in 15 years. After listening to me make excuses about how the skirt would float up or my girls would pop out for an unapproved guest appearance, my best friend wisely told me to shut up and try on one of her higher-necked, skirt-less suits from Longitude. (I hate it when she’s right.)

The no-frills one-piece I wore to the pool covered my butt and boobs completely, while allowing full range of motion. Best of all, I actually think it was more flattering on me than any of the skirted looks I’ve sported in the past several years. The straps were wide and the neck was high, which is a must if you’re large-chested; you want to be able to focus on your movements and breathing, not about whether you’re over-exposing yourself. If one-piece suits aren’t your thing, a tankini that stays put and allows movement would work well, also. I threw a pair of swim shorts over my tank, but probably would omit them next time, because they bunched up between my legs during the cycling and cross-country skiing motions. Above all, wear what makes you comfortable, confident and able to move freely. And if you’ve got long hair, secure it in a ponytail or pigtails so you’re not messing with it during the workout. (Note: At no point were we asked to put our heads under water.)

Be sweet to your feet

Water may be forgiving on joints and muscles, but you still need to be conscious of your form. Try to avoid spending the whole class standing and landing on the balls of your feet. Not only will using  your whole foot work your muscles more effectively and prevent injury, it’s also less likely to cause calluses and blisters. To minimize irritation from repeated contact with pool tiles and grates, consider purchasing aqua socks; for better stability, upgrade to water shoes.

Don’t be afraid to shop around

Like any type of workout, one size doesn’t always fit all. Most gyms will offer multiple aqua fitness classes to suit different levels of ability and intensity. Some classes focus more on cardio, others on strength conditioning or stretching. Believe it or not, the class I jumped into was a high-intensity class (hello, ego boost!) that the center calls Aqua Blast. (Consider this a road-tested late addition to our Guide to Unleashing Your Inner Superhero!) Several gyms have hopped onto the current Zumba craze and offer Aqua Zumba, water aerobics with a Latin dance flavor.

Whatever class you choose, remember that you control your own tempo and pace. If a movement demonstrated by the instructor is too “big,” you can always adjust to something that feels more comfortable, or just kick your legs or march in place until the next move.

Going rogue

If the local gyms don’t fit your needs, comfort level or checkbook (I’m still turning over couch cushions for change to fund a membership), there may still be a way to get your water aerobics fix. Girls lucky enough to have a pool of their own (or a friend who will share) can create a water routine using imagination and/or resources like DVDs, aqua barbells or weights from retailers such as WaterWorkOut. The same can be done in a community pool or, during the summer, in a lake or other local body of water. Everyday household items like empty milk jugs can be used in place of barbells, or you could just grab a $3 pool noodle and start kicking. Even walking laps during open swim at your local YMCA/YWCA will provide cardio and strength benefits.

As for me, I’m wishing I hadn’t wasted so much time psyching myself out of an activity that feels like such a natural fit for a water-loving girl. Don’t follow in my ‘fraidy cat footsteps, ladies — dip your toe into an activity that you’ve previously only wondered about. It might turn out to be the fitness “aha moment” you’ve been waiting for.

What do you love about water aerobics? Have you wanted to try but held back? Or waded in then decided it wasn’t for you? Tell us in comments.

the weigh-in by I Don’t Know, Maybe?

Dear FGG: Are there any bathroom scales that are better for us big girls?”

Yes! If you caught the recent press onslaught for the Withings Wi-Fi Body Scale, which now provides users the option of broadcasting their stats via Twitter, your response may well have echoed that of my friend Stacey when she linked to this gem on Facebook: “Um, no, I don’t think so.” (I might have added a few other choice words there and concluded with “death first,” but Stacey likes to keep it classy.)

While bathroom scales can provide a reality check when used properly (i.e. for weekly weigh-ins, not after-every-meal obsessions), most of us probably don’t need our friends, family and the guy we sat next to in geometry class reading real-time updates of our weight fluctuations. In the interest of a down-to-earth approach to weight monitoring for those who seek it, we’ve compiled a few scale suggestions that accommodate higher weights and offer just the facts, ma’am.

Weight Watchers Glass Memory Precision Scale

Conair makes numerous Weight Watchers-branded models, but the WW43D provides a weight capacity of 380 pounds (the standard these days is 330), a wide (12.5″), stable platform and a large display for easy readability — all in a sleek and affordable ($40-$45) package. It tracks weight (including goals and progress) for four users, and reviewers rave about its consistently accurate readings, thanks to a leveling device that tells you when you’re standing squarely on the base. And don’t fear the “Weight Watchers” moniker; the company’s logo (two W’s and a swirl) is relatively subtle and doesn’t scream “plus-sized” or “Diet Girl.”

Tanita HD-351 Digital Weight Scale

The over-sized (19″H x 15″W) low-profile weighing base on the HD-351 ($65-$75) is a great match for girls with thick thighs or joint issues that prohibit placing feet close together on a standard scale. Better still, those weighing in at the high end of the scale’s 440-pound capacity report that it still feels sturdy and stable. Described by users as very consistent with its readings, this model gives the current and previous weight for as many as five users, delivered on an easy-to-read, two-line LCD display. This feature provides greater personalization, (tracking morning vs. evening weights, for example), though some more private users have been known to keep a “reset” gallon of water in the bathroom to weigh afterward — or to banish husbands from touching the scale altogether.

Seca 813 Robusta High Capacity Digital Floor Scale

Despite a weight limit of 440 pounds, you won’t find the word “robust” visible anywhere on this professional-quality, fat girl-friendly scale. Instead, users will appreciate the extra-wide (15″), low-profile weighing base, which is covered in non-slip black rubber and soft, raised circles to give feet extra traction. This is a pricier model ($115-$130), but users say the heavy-duty stability and thin, lightweight design is worth the expense. Be sure to switch the LCD setting to your preference of pounds or kilograms via the small switch on the scale’s bottom.

How do you choose to track your weight, if you choose to track your weight? Share your thoughts on basic vs. “bells and whistles” models in comments.