Exercising After Weight Loss Surgery: Why It Matters
Bariatric surgery is a tool for weight loss, not a cure. Surgery is only the first part of the process – after that, it’s up to you to ensure the overall success of your weight loss journey. The first few months after surgery can be the most challenging, which is why it’s important to start creating healthy habits, not just for eating but also for exercising.
Regular physical exercise is just as important as a healthy diet after weight loss surgery. Not only does exercising after surgery help promote weight loss, it also improves physical function and reduces the risk of health complications. Exercise can also have a positive impact on your mental health and overall wellbeing.
Before you start planning an exercise routine, it’s important to understand the guidelines for exercising after weight loss surgery.
Guidelines for Exercising After Weight Loss Surgery
Following bariatric surgery, there are a few general exercise guidelines you should keep in mind.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions – they will let you know when you are able to exercise after surgery and what type of exercise will be best for you.
- Start with low impact exercises, like walking, and gradually increase the intensity and duration.
- Drink plenty of water – since your stomach is smaller, you will have a hard time absorbing water. Exercise can make this harder, so it’s crucial that you drink water before, during, and after your workout.
- Listen to your body – although discomfort during exercise is common, especially if you have not worked out in a long time, you should not be in pain. If you experience pain during and after exercise, talk to your doctor.
Exercise Ideas After Weight Loss Surgery
Having an exercise routine is important because it helps to establish a consistent habit of physical activity. By setting aside dedicated time each day or week for exercise, you are more likely to stick to a routine and make it a normal part of your lifestyle. A routine can also help you overcome some of the common barriers to exercise, like lack of motivation and time constraints. When exercise is a regular part of your routine, it becomes easier to prioritise it.
The specific exercise routine or plan will look different for everybody depending on your individual health and fitness level, as well as the type of surgery you’ve had. It is important to consult with your doctor and weight loss team before starting any exercise routine after surgery.
That being said, here is an example of a basic weekly exercise routine that could work for you after weight loss surgery.
- Monday – 20-45 minute low-impact walk
- Tuesday – light activity, such as yoga
- Wednesday – 20-30 minute walk and body weight strength circuit
- Thursday – pilates or Tai Chi
- Friday – 20-45 minute low-impact walk
- Saturday – strength circuit
- Sunday – rest
Remember, this is just an example. Your doctor and weight loss team will help you create a routine that will work for you. Listen to your body, and if anything doesn’t feel right, talk to your doctor.
Post-Bariatric Surgery Exercise Resources
Tim Douge from Studio 99 at Milton has worked with Brisbane Weight Loss Surgery to provide you with some great post op exercise ideas. Tim talks you through different exercises at every stage of your journey after weight loss surgery. These videos are easy to follow along at home and will help you get back on track with your fitness. Watch them here.
Tips for Staying Motivated
We understand that there are many challenges to exercise after weight loss surgery. Whether it is physical or mental, creating and sticking to a routine can sometimes feel like a struggle. Although exercise can be one of the most positive strategies to manage both mental and physical health, you need to be proactive and intentional with your planning to create a new routine.
Here are some tips for staying motivated:
- Set realistic goals.
- Work out with a partner.
- Mix up your workouts.
- Keep track of your progress through a journal, photos, and measurements.
- Be kind to yourself.