Do you want to know the best exercises to do after bariatric surgery? If so, then this article is for you. We will discuss the first few weeks and what you should be doing during that time period, as well as exercises to try once you are healed. Let’s jump in!
Start Out Slow
Right after bariatric surgery, you will still be healing. This means no lifting weights and no intense cardio. However, you can start bariatric exercise with a little movement. You should be taking walks, even if they are just around the house at first. In time, you can work up to walks around the block as part of your post-bariatric surgery exercise plan and eventually do a few laps.
Kick Up the Cardio
As you begin to heal, you can kick up the intensity of your cardio. Move from those short walks to longer ones, then try moving at a faster pace until you can do a light jog. Steadily, you will increase your stamina and move towards better health that supports more intense exercise.
Try Out Bodyweight Exercises
Toning exercises after bariatric surgery are essential. Once you are healed, it is time to get moving! Try light calisthenics like squats, wall sits, push-ups, crunches, and planks. You can also take this opportunity for strength training to use your own body weight. This will help you gear up for actual weight lifting later on in recovery.
Move Into More Complete Routines
After you begin to adjust to working out, it is time to take things to the next level. Incorporate weights into your routines and try more intense cardio. You can also branch out into more advanced exercises. This may include complex exercises that combine different types of movements and even taking up a new sport.
Be Patient With Yourself
Finally, remember to be patient with yourself as you recover from bariatric surgery. It takes time for your body to heal! Do not push too hard or exercise after bariatric surgery until pain—this could cause further damage that will set you back in the long run. Stay on a regular workout schedule but do not feel pressured by others’ expectations of what you should accomplish within certain timespans. The important thing is doing something every day—even if it’s just walking around the block.
Looking for some more information? Read: Starting Yoga After Weight Loss Surgery and How to Stop Weight Gain Due to Hormonal Imbalance. For more direct guidance, contact Dr. Jalil.
