[Bill]

Hi AA! Are you using those small hand weights? Maybe a quick workout with a pound or two several times a week would help maintain/increase your muscle mass. There are alot of interesting exercises you can do with small weights and you can make up some on your own. Also, you could carry one of those grip-spring things wherever you travel and do a few sets anywhere. I highly recommend trying some T'ai chi, or yoga. There are alot of good videos out there these days. Don't give up the jump-roping, though. It's awesome that you can go for 30 minutes. Jumping rope like that helps in so many ways- balance, co-ordination, overall body workout. In my opinion, it sounds like you need to eat a little more. Maybe try varying how you eat. One week, low fat, one week only soups and salads, one week gorge yourself on healthy fish and nuts. Mix it up and see if you can kick-start your metabolism. Good luck!