DEAR HARRIETTE: I recently started an exercise regimen that my doctor recommended. I walk about five miles a day. I am really getting into it now. I got a pedometer to count my steps because my doctor told me that I should walk at least 10,000 steps a day. I am building up to that, and generally I feel pretty good about myself. Now that the weather is nice, I have been walking at the neighborhood track and in the park, which is nice. I was talking to some friends the other day and told them what I've been doing. One of them started laughing at me. She said I would never reach any fitness goal with just walking. She then proceeded to tell me all about the workout that she does and why I should do that. I don't doubt that her extremely rigorous workout would whip anyone into shape. She's so buff, but I am not ready to do her routine. I have a lot of weight to lose, and I want to follow my doctor's plan and stick to it for a change. How can I get my friends, especially this one, to understand where I am and be supportive even if I am not ready to step it up to their level? -- Stepping Up, Seattle
DEAR STEPPING UP: Give yourself a lot of credit for starting an exercise program that your doctor says is best for you. What's most important is that you develop discipline around it so that you will stick to it no matter what. Walking, by the way, is excellent for the body -- no matter whether you are overweight or perfectly toned.
As far as your friends go, if they are not encouraging you, stop telling them what you are doing. Stay laser-focused on your goals. Pay attention to the other people you see who are walking. You may want to identify a buddy who is already doing a regular walk to be a support. If you find someone you like, you could talk about meeting up at the track at particular times. Or you could just chat about each other's goals and accomplishments when you see each other. That may be where you find outside encouragement.