Fat body in Memphis needs help

First of all congrats on getting married and your decision to do a tri. Having done both, I highly recommend them.

Mike mentioned Michael Pate.  For inspiration, go to his web site www.whenbigboystri.com. He's written a book about his experience as a larger-than-your-average triathlete.

From the sound of it you're coming from an extended period "on the couch" so the key thing is going to be to start off slowly and to not let temporary setbacks stop you. When you start out, you'll be laying down the foundation for what's to come so focus on that.

If Michael's beginning tri plan seems like a lot, you could start with the Couch-to-5k Conservative 28 Week plan which would have you ready for a 5k in August. You could then keep up the running and do a few more races while you add in cycling and swimming to start training for a tri in 2007.

I came "from the couch" after quitting smoking and ran for about 6-7 months before starting tri-training. I think it helped to start with one thing and then get into the more intense stuff once I was in a habit of exercising regularly.  

Good luck! 

I'm going to be #3 to talk about Mike!  I raced with him in a tri in Lafayette last August.   He smoked me on the bike!  He is a true inspiration to anyone who thinks they're not good enough, fast enough, or skinny enough for a triathlon. 

I say find a late-season tri and shoot for that goal.  You'll be itching to get out there and probably won't want to wait until next season.  You've got plenty of time to get a base of training in.  I went from a totally sedentary lifestyle to a sprint in 6 weeks on a whim, but don't do it like I did!  I walked most of the run, just about died on the bike, and nearly drowned on the swim.  I guarantee, you can do this!!  Good luck!