I went to the gym for over a year and that was the best I ever felt in my life. It was hard being out in public. But I brought my iPod and just zoned out. I haven't been to the gym in a few years and my condition has gotten worse. I love love love hiking. I get exercise, and get to get away from all the noise of life. These forums seem a bit sad, as all the postings are old. But my advice which probably won't be read would be to at least do the elliptical machine. Cardio is a life saver. Just get the blood pumping.