Weight loss surgery doesn’t replace the need for exercise and a healthy diet. As you recover, it’s important to start incorporating exercise into your routine. Not only can physical activity help promote faster healing, but it can also increase circulation, improve your confidence and mood, and help you lose weight. After having surgery with Valeriu E. Andrei, M.D., Bariatric Associates P.A., you’ll be given specific instructions for what to do and what not to do. Here are some universal tips to keep in mind about exercise after weight loss surgery.
Do Start Off Slow
Right after the surgery, you might be motivated to start working out immediately. However, your body needs time to heal. Start by slowly walking for up to 10 minutes at a time. Eventually, you can walk for longer periods and pick up a brisk pace. Later, you can incorporate other types of exercises into your routine but just stick to walking after surgery. It’s important to get your body moving without placing strain on your incisions.
Do Follow the Doctor’s Orders
Be sure to follow all orders from Dr. Andrei and the team. Every patient’s workout regimen is a little bit different depending on his or her physical health, and the type of surgery performed. Try to stay focused on your own progress and don’t compare yourself to others in your support group. Generally, you’ll be walking for the first month or two. Then, you’ll be allowed to swim, bike, dance, run, strength train, and take classes like yoga. After about a year, you’ll get the green light to do interval training and more intense workouts.
Do Find Workouts You Enjoy
You’ll be more motivated to work out if you find exercises you love. You might discover that you love to go hiking on beautiful trails. Or, maybe biking or kickboxing will be your new favorite activity. You could even adopt a dog to encourage yourself to get out and go walking more. Don’t be afraid to try new things until you find something that sticks.
Don’t Perform Abdominal Exercises at First
Try avoiding abdominal exercises until your incisions are fully healed, so as not to increase the risk for complications. This includes things like crunches and sit-ups. Wait until you’re cleared by Dr. Andrei and the team before you start focusing on those muscles.
Don’t Stop Exercising
For long-term weight loss success, it’s important to keep up with a regular exercise routine. Exercising is a great way to not only lose weight initially but to keep it off, too. Stay involved with a support group to help find the motivation to keep going every single week and hold yourself accountable as your journey continues. But keep in mind that you must listen to your body and not push yourself too hard, as you’ve just been through a major change and are still adjusting and healing. Be patient and give it time.
Schedule a Weight Loss Surgery Consultation
By following these tips and your specific instructions about exercise after weight loss surgery, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your goals. At Valeriu E. Andrei, M.D., Bariatric Associates P.A., we’re committed to giving you all the resources, education, and support you need to be successful on your journey. For more information or to request an appointment, contact us today.
