Xbox 360 Gamer profile already exists, can I enable XBOX live on existing one?

I have recently got my XBOX 360 connected to the internet, but when I go to sign into XBOX live it wants me to create a new profile, is their no way I can get my existing gamer profile signed into XBOX live without it having to create a new profile because I don't want to lose all the achievements/savegames etc that I've already got.

Advice needed please.

Thank you

 

There is a gamer profile recovery option on the dashboard.

 

You should be able to Retrieve the gamertag using your sign in details, its in the settings menu.

 

^^ you just need to enter the Live email addy & password that you used to sign up to xbox live with.

 

should be quick as well with the new dashboard update

 

I think he means that he has an offline gamertag that he wants to take online.

In that case, just sign in to your gamertag and while signed in (this is important, you have to be signed in to that profile) and press the Join Xbox Live button which can be found in several places.