After bariatric surgery, you’re faced with a new situation in your life, one that should focus on healthy eating choices and regular exercise. There are many different workouts that you can do while you’re recovering from weight loss surgery. As you improve, you’ll be able to diversify and add more challenging exercises to your routine. Depending on your prior fitness level, your doctor ultimately recommends when and how much you can start working out after surgery. Normally, it is recommend that you don’t engage in activities more strenuous than walking during the first 30 to 90 days after surgery. The following are the best post bariatric surgery exercises you can try out on your journey to fitness and weight loss.
LOW IMPACT EXERCISES (2-4 WEEKS AFTER SURGERY): Initially after surgery, you should focus on recovery first before any type of workout routine. Once permitted by your doctor and your body is up to the task, you can begin trying out the following low impact exercises: leg lifts while sitting, shoulder rolls, arm rotations and walking.
AEROBICS AND CARDIO (1-3 MONTHS AFTER SURGERY): After a month into post bariatric surgery recovery, you can step up the intensity of your workouts and exercises. It is always important to go at your own pace and make sure that your doctor is aware of your workout routine and how your body is responding to it. Cycling and water aerobics are great, low-impact exercises that step up the intensity some.
STRENGTH TRAINING (4 MONTHS AFTER SURGERY): With your doctor’s approval, you can now begin strength training exercises approximately four months after surgery. Strength training exercises are vital in that they burn more fat, build muscle and improve balance. Squats, lunges and even yoga are great starting points to engage in strength training workouts.