Phelan? I don't know your age from your profile (lack of info there), and so I am just going to ask, when was you last physical? According to any medical doctor, one should have a physical before starting an excercise regimen.

So...with that out of the way...

Are you in a place where you can walk outside? Do you have a treadmill? Walking (especially on an incline)...and watching your diet of calorie, fat, carb, and salt intake can significantly turn fat (those love handles) into muscle.

Not that I am any great specimen...but I walk as often as possible and find that I can combat that battle of the bulge in this, somewhat easier than most, type of exercise program.

Good luck...and power to the muscle! LOL!

__________________
Minds are like parachutes. They only work when they are open.

~Thomas Dewar~