Gentle Exercises to Try after Bariatric Surgery

If you’ve been struggling with weight loss, it can be difficult to get into a regular exercise routine. Following bariatric surgery, you may experience renewed energy from the weight loss, but you may still need to take things slow for your safety. It’s unlikely you’ll be ready to jump into gym classes right away, but there are plenty of gentle exercises you can try in order to get into a routine. Keep reading to find out what they are, but be sure to always discuss exercise with your doctor or bariatric surgeon beforehand. 

Yoga

Yoga can be a wonderful gentle exercise to try after bariatric surgery. The goal of yoga is to forge a union between the mind, body and spirit, and the physical aspect involves a series of stretches, postures and balance. These exercises can help with flexibility, core strength and balance, and allows you to tone, as well as calm your mind at a gentle pace. 

Pilates

Pilates is a great exercise for those who have recently experienced an injury. Exercises are low-impact, allowing you to build strength and flexibility at a gentle pace. Pilates exercises usually target your core, and involves focusing on breath control. Pilates is great because it’s meant to be modified to suit various levels of fitness. With that in mind, it’s important to inform your instructor of your injury or recent surgery, and it’s best to stick with a beginner’s course. There are many pilates moves that can even be done while sitting down. 

Swimming

Swimming is another low-impact exercise, meaning it’s a great way to ease your body back into an exercise routine. Swimming exercises can help build cardiovascular fitness, improve endurance, and release stress. It can also improve lung health, and can be a therapeutic way to calm your mind. After surgery, swimming can be a great way to regain your physical conditioning and get into a regular routine. 

Gentle Hiking or Walking

Gentle walking and hiking is a no-frills, easy way to ease yourself into exercise after surgery. Begin with short walks on flat terrain, and then you can move on to more inclined hikes. Bringing a friend or spouse with you can help boost your spirits and provide you with support if you need it. Gentle walks or hikes is also a great way to get up and spend more time outdoors. Be sure to invest in some comfortable, supportive shoes or boots to avoid injury and keep your feet and posture corrected. 

Things to Know About Exercising After Surgery

You may be reluctant to start exercising after bariatric surgery for a couple of reasons. Maybe you’re worried about getting injured, or experiencing pain from post-op recovery. While these feelings are completely normal, any gentle exercise or physical activity will help your rehabilitation process. Be sure to discuss exercise as part of your rehabilitation plan with your doctor or bariatric surgeon. In some cases, it may be wise to work with a personal trainer or physical therapist when starting exercise post-surgery. 

If you’ve been struggling with weight loss, it can be difficult to get into a regular exercise routine. Following bariatric surgery, you may experience renewed energy from the weight loss, but you may still need to take things slow for your safety. It’s unlikely you’ll be ready to jump into gym classes right away, but there are plenty of gentle exercises you can try in order to get into a routine. Keep reading to find out what they are, but be sure to always discuss exercise with your doctor or bariatric surgeon beforehand.