Exercise Before and After Weight Loss Surgery

Adding an exercise regimen to your lifestyle strongly enhances weight loss and good health when you have bariatric surgery. The results are dramatic. In a study of 190 people who underwent weight loss surgery, those who exercised lost about 13 pounds more than those who did not. They also had faster recoveries after surgery, lower rates of depression and better general health.

Beginning a regimen before your surgery is even more helpful. Those who begin exercising regularly six to twelve months before bariatric surgery are twice as likely to recover quickly and adjust well after surgery.

Exercise does not have to be vigorous or intense at first. Experts recommend starting with light exercise for twenty to thirty minutes twice a week. One example is 10 minutes of walking twice a day. If you have mobility problems, doctors say you can try marching in place while seated for 20 minutes, instead.

You’ll need a bit of recovery time after bariatric surgery. Exercise should be resumed about three weeks after surgery but check with your surgical team for the exact time that is best for you. Try to work up to 30 minutes of continuous exercise 3 to 5 times each week. Walking, biking and swimming are all great options for aerobic exercise. Try walking on one of the many foot trails here in Bradenton for a change of pace. You should be doing some strength exercises, as well.

By the time you have reached the one year point, you should be able to exercise 45 minutes five times a week. Yoga, dance classes, kick boxing, or aerobics classes are all great ways to get that exercise.

The goal is to make exercise and fitness a lifelong habit. Getting at least 45 minutes of aerobic exercise daily will help you lose the weight, improve your health, and feel better overall.