I am 31 and have smoked for 16 years - I got really sick of being so unfit and so finally kicked the habit - I am weighting in at 16.5 stone and I am only 5ft 9in but I am trying to exercise to get my weight down. Unfortunately as soon as I do any exercise even for just 1 minute I get vertigo, tightness in my chest and I can barely breath - I haven't even managed to break a sweat but I can't go on like this... what can I do.

Before starting any new exercise routine you need t oconsult with a doctor,if your given a clean bill of health or other direction,talking to a trainer in the gym will help start you off easy,and under the guidance of a professional,at least until you increase your fitness.

Well done for giving up the smokes!