Thread: Advice for my body transformation

Hi. I've recently started my weight loss and body transformation journey. I started at 278 lbs, and have managed to lose 48 lbs over 3 1/2 months through carefully prepared and portioned meals.

I seem to be hitting a plateau with weight loss via diet alone. I'd like to start exercising to keep things moving, but I'm a bit lost on where to start. As a bit of background, I'm a 41 year old male that has always been a little overweight his whole life, but some years ago fell into depression and put on 55 lbs. I have lost most of that "depression" weight, but I'd like to get to an even healthier place than I was before. I have researched and, from what I have read, light cardio along with core training and resistance training seem to be the best fit for me, but I admit to knowing very little and being open to advice. I would like to get more defined muscles while burning fat, focusing on abs, obliques, thighs and glutes. I live alone in a somewhat small upstairs apartment, but with a high rise ceiling.

As far as food and eating habits, I am doing very well. I manage my cravings through willpower and taking in lots of appetite reducing foods. Capsaicin rich foods seem to agree with me. When I need to snack I grab a jar of pickled japalenos, they work out to about 2 calories per tbsp. I never have issues with binging and controlling portion size, so that's one obstacle I don't have to worry about.

As far as equipment, I have looked into pullup/dip stations, medicine balls, dumbbells, kettlebells. step platforms, resistance bands, bike machines, ab roller wheels, battle ropes and many others.

What beginner equipment and routines would you all recommend for me? I have a budget of about $1000 I'm willing to invest into this, although I'd like to start with some inexpensive equipment and test the waters to make sure I can commit to a workout schedule.