In the days and weeks following your bariatric surgery, your healing and recovery are top priority. However, once you are feeling up to it and have permission from your surgeon, you may want to engage in low-impact exercise to continue your weight loss journey and create a healthy lifestyle for yourself.
We have outlined the kinds of exercises that you may want to engage in depending on where you are with your recovery. Before committing to a new workout regimen, speak with your healthcare team to ensure that it is safe to do so.
Low-Impact
2-4 Weeks After Surgery
During this stage, exercise should be light, controlled and all about getting your body used to more movement again.
Exercises and Activities
- Sitting exercises, such as shoulder rolls
- Walking
- Laundry
- Light housework
- Playing with the kids
- Walking the dog
- Grocery shopping
Start out with only a few minutes of exercise every other day, progressing toward 10-15 minutes of light exercise and activity per day.
Aerobics and Cardio
1-3 Months After Surgery
Slowly but surely, you should be able to advance to more moderate exercises and activities at this stage. These exercises can help you tone muscles and improve balance, flexibility and overall mobility, especially following your weight loss procedure.
Exercises and Activities
- Cycling
- Water aerobics
- Swimming
- Running
- Skipping rope
- Yard work
- Moderate housework
Aim to engage in exercise for about 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
Strength Training
4+ Months After Surgery
By now, your activity levels and exercise regimen should be back to normal. Exercise is key during your weight loss journey, but it is important that you listen to your body and advance at a rate that is comfortable for you.
Exercises and Activities
- Squats
- Lunges
- Push-ups
- Reverse crunches
- Yoga
- Cleaning the interior and exterior of your vehicle
- Yard work
Aim to engage in exercise for at least 45 to 60 minutes a day, five days a week. Be sure to reflect on how you are feeling during your workout sessions, both physically and mentally, and share the information with your health team.
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Weight Loss Centre
Open and honest communication with your surgeon and health team at the SmartShape
Weight Loss Centre is key following your weight loss procedure. Get in touch with the experts at SmartShape today if you have questions regarding post-bariatric exercise, diet or lifestyle changes.
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