Exercise after Bariatric Surgery
Exercise is an important part of staying healthy, both for everyday Americans and those looking for a way to lose weight in a healthy, gradual way. For those considering weight loss surgery, however, routine exercise after bariatric surgery is a critical component in healthy post-surgical living.
Exercise after bariatric surgery may not be the most important part of weight loss success, but it can be very, very helpful when combined with a proper diet. What's more, exercise can make you feel great, improve energy levels, and encourage healthy sleeping, digestion, and circulation, providing a wealth of benefits for your changing body.
At Virginia Bariatric Surgery Center, we understand the importance of exercise, and want to help you build a great relationship with your new body. As such, we have a developed a philosophy regarding exercise that we call “Dr. Fitzer's Golden Rule”--start slowly and exercise sustainably.
Exercise Wisely
Many of us know people who lost a significant amount of weight through extreme exercise, like a man who worked out for four hours on a Stairmaster everyday for six months and lost 100 pounds. However, with these kinds of extreme workouts there there is usually a breaking point and that’s when weight loss progress starts to reverse.
Instead of throwing yourself into a grueling routine solely for the weight loss benefits, it's much better to start a program that you enjoy doing and can commit to forever. Not a routine you just like - one you really, truly enjoy. If running isn't your style, that doesn't mean you should give up; keep trying until you find your perfect fit. Choose a setting you like, whether that means outdoors in a park or inside a fitness studio with a great atmosphere.
Start Slowly
For those without a long history of working out, doing exercise after bariatric surgery can seem daunting. No one wants to go out for a jog only to run out of steam halfway around the block, but with dedication and perseverance, everyone is capable of amazing fitness gains.
Many bariatric surgery patients try to go too hard, too quickly, only to become frustrated when results aren't instantaneous. Instead, start slowly. If you are in pain after a first workout or try to push your personal limits too far, you're much more likely to quit. Set reasonable goals and start with low impact options to avoid too much stress and strain early on. No one secures the perfect bikini body after a single workout, but a sustainable, enjoyable routine can have you ready to strut your stuff at the pool in the future.
In order to encourage our patients to succeed, we have partnered with local health care institutions and fitness centers to help you get started on a long-term program of exercise after bariatric surgery, and we are happy to help you find the right option for you. Contact us today at (703) 709-9771 or contact us online to learn more or to schedule an appointment with a member of our team!
