When can I resume exercise after weight loss surgery?

ASMBS -  When can I resume exercise after my WLS?

Postoperative exercise

Exercise after surgery is absolutely imperative, and it may be the most important factor that can help a patient achieve long-standing and successful weight loss.

Regimen:

1. Start walking from day 1.
2. Increase your walking each day. Add other aerobic exercises like swimming and bicycle riding as your surgeon permits and as you feel so inclined.
3. Start light weight training and sit-ups as your surgeon allows. Increase weights and number of reps gradually. This type of exercise will increase muscles mass which improves strength, increases bone density, and increases metabolism.
4. Consider using a personal trainer to educate one about exercise, improve motivation, and help assure proper routines.

Independent of what phase a patient may be in before or after surgery, there are certain basic safe and reliable rules to follow in regard to exercise:

1. 1. Consider your goals and how you want to accomplish them. You can achieve it!
2. 2. Use exercise in combination with weight loss surgery to maximize results.
3. 3. Remember everyone starts from a different state of physical ability and strength. Gradually increase your activity and exercise capacity. Mild discomfort from exercise is acceptable, but pain should be avoided. Ignore the cliché, “No pain no gain.”
4. 4. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise.

In addition to loss of fat mass, there are other numerous benefits to exercise. These benefits include prevention of loss of muscle mass when losing weight rapidly after surgery, and improved overall weight loss. One’s immune system is enhanced by exercise and this will help maintain overall general health. Exercise may also reduce a person’s appetite. Fatigue, which sometimes is problematic after surgery, may be reduced. Finally, there can be improved balance, improved self-confidence, and overall improved sense of well being.

http://asmbs.org/2012/01/bariatric-surgery-postoperative-concerns/#sthash.88t8iomM.dpuf