After making the decision to get back into shape, Surenyan-Krech made the daunting decision to try out yoga.
"It is really intimidating to walk into a yoga studio where everybody weighs 110 pounds, which is what I lost," Surenyan-Krech said.
The practice of yoga is more than flexibility, but for those overweight, classes can be traumatic.
Surenyan-Krech said yoga helped her regain her balance, both mentally and physically.
"Yoga teaches you about living in the present moment and about going within," said Surenyan-Krech.
Going within helped her learn to be comfortable on less food and more movement.
David Drexler of Sherman Oaks said he experiences the same discomfort when walking into traditional classes.
"To be a 63-year-old, 200-pound male and have little ballerinas in the front who are lithe, and they can do anything, yes it can be intimidating, but I try not to look at them," he said.
[Ads /]
Drexler said he has loved yoga since the '70s and that it has helped him develop a positive outlook on his weight.
"In addition to having weight, I have age, so it's a good way to keep everything in balance," Drexler said.
Fear of judgmental class-goers hasn't stopped Heather Kuklin, who has heard excuses from other friends battling weight issues.
She said her friends have expressed interest in yoga classes but say they want to get in shape first.
"What? Do you want to do yoga? Do you have a body? You have a yoga body," the charismatic yoga lover said.
For those who don't feel comfortable in a group exercise class, there are options available for home yoga workouts.
Yoga instructor Abbey Lenz, 66, has a DVD series called Heavy Weight Yoga. There's also Buddah Body Yoga and online you'll find Curvy Yoga that offers instructional videos.
Yoga Works instructor Chaz says an educated instructor can get you to that 'ohm' experience.
"There are various modifications you can make. That is why yoga blocks exist. All different kinds of props that can help people," Chaz said.
She said people can use items such as bolsters, straps, and chairs for support.
"Doing the yoga at age 30, changed everything. Determination, focus, esteem, being comfortable with myself, being comfortable around others," Kuklin said.