Undergoing gastric sleeve surgery is a significant step towards a healthier lifestyle. After the surgery, your body will need time to recover and heal before you can begin exercising again. Knowing when and how to start exercising is essential to achieving long-term success and maintaining the results of your surgery. In this article, we will discuss when you can start exercising, the types of exercises to perform, and tips for safely reintroducing physical activity after gastric sleeve surgery.
Wait for Your Surgeon’s Approval
As a general rule, you should always follow your surgeon’s advice regarding the recovery process. In most cases, patients can begin to engage in light physical activity within one to two weeks following the procedure. However, the exact timeline will vary depending on individual factors such as the patient’s overall health, the specifics of their surgery, and how quickly they are healing.
To ensure that you embark on your exercising journey safely, consult a qualified professional for gastric sleeve in NYC and follow the personalized guidelines they provide you. A healthcare provider can also help you with preparation and establish a suitable exercise regimen for your needs.
Start with Low-Impact Activities
When it comes to reintroducing exercise after gastric sleeve surgery, it’s crucial to take baby steps and not push yourself too hard. Start with low-impact activities such as walking, using an exercise bike, or swimming, as they are gentle on the joints, help to increase mobility, and facilitate weight loss. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of these activities as your body becomes stronger.
Incorporate Strength Training Exercises
After a few weeks of low-impact activities (and with your surgeon’s approval), you can begin incorporating strength training exercises into your regimen. Strength training promotes the growth of lean muscle mass, improves bone density, and helps in maintaining a healthy weight.
Focus on exercises that target significant muscle groups, such as the chest, back, legs, and core. Begin with light resistance (using either body weight or light dumbbells and resistance bands) and gradually increase the intensity as your strength improves.
Adding High-Impact Activities
High-impact exercises like jumping, running, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) offer immense benefits to your cardiovascular system and can significantly help with weight loss. However, they can also put your joints and surgical site under stress.
Only add high-impact activities to your routine once your surgeon gives you the green light—typically between three and six months after surgery. Always start these exercises at a low intensity and gradually work your way up.
Listen to Your Body and Stay Safe
The key to successfully reintroducing exercise after gastric sleeve surgery is to listen to your body and proceed gradually. If you experience pain, discomfort, or dizziness during your workout, stop immediately and consult with your surgeon. Moreover, it’s helpful to read this blog post on steps to follow for a healthier lifestyle after gastric sleeve surgery to gain further insight into how to maximize the benefits of your surgery.
To Sum Up
By following these guidelines and working closely with your surgeon, you can confidently reintroduce exercise after gastric sleeve surgery. Just keep in mind that consistency and patience are crucial for achieving long-term success. Stay motivated, and you’ll be well on your way to a healthier and happier you. Good luck!