When Can I Exercise After Gastric Sleeve Surgery? Here’s What You Should Know
Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a common weight loss surgery that involves reducing the size of the stomach.
After surgery, following a strict post-operative plan is important to ensure a successful recovery.
One of the most common questions many patients have is when they can start exercising after gastric sleeve surgery.
In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of exercising after gastric sleeve surgery, when it’s safe to start exercising, and what types of exercises are best, including safe and effective ab workouts to integrate into your new routine. Continue reading to learn more.
The Benefits of Exercise After Gastric Sleeve Surgery
There are naturally so many benefits to regular exercise.
In fact, exercise is an essential part of any weight loss journey, and it’s particularly important after gastric sleeve surgery.
Regular exercise can help
- speed up weight loss
- improve cardiovascular health
- increase muscle tone
- improve overall well-being
So, When Can I Start Exercise After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
The timeline for starting exercise after gastric sleeve surgery will vary depending on individual factors, such as overall health and the extent of the surgery.
In general, most patients can start light exercise, such as walking, as soon as a week after the surgery and begin a full workout regimen 4 to 6 weeks post-op.
However, you should consult your bariatric surgeon to determine when it’s safe to start moving along with choosing a personalized timeline for more intense exercises.
Effective Types of Exercise After Gastric Sleeve Surgery
After recovering from gastric sleeve surgery, you should get back into a regular workout regimen with low-impact exercises to help improve overall health and maintain a healthier weight.
Some of the most effective low-impact exercises include
- Walking
- Swimming
- Cycling
- Yoga
- Resistance training
A gradual increase in the intensity and duration of the exercise should occur over time to improve overall fitness and health.
It’s important to avoid exercises that put too much strain on the abdomen, such as sit-ups or weightlifting, for at least 6 weeks after the surgery.
You should also listen to your body to avoid overexertion, which can lead to injury or other complications.
As mentioned, it is recommended to wait at least 4-6 weeks after surgery before starting any exercise program and to consult with your doctor or a certified personal trainer before beginning any new exercise routine.
Safe Ab Exercises After Gastric Sleeve Surgery
One of the most common exercise-related questions is when to start doing ab exercises after gastric sleeve surgery.
While ab exercises are foundational in reducing belly fat and flattening your core, they’re not the only option when it comes to exercises for weight loss, improved physique, and core strength.
It’s essential to wait at least 6 weeks after the surgery before doing exercises targeting the abdominal muscles, as this area will still be healing.
After the 6-week mark, you can start doing gentle exercises, such as pelvic tilts or planks, gradually increasing the intensity and amount over time.
While ab exercises are a great way to regain your abdominal and core strength, ab exercises do not need to be performed daily to provide results. Instead, start with a few times a week and continue to integrate ab exercises after gastric sleeve as part of your regular workout routine.
Life-Changing Gastric Sleeve Treatment You Can Trust
Exercise is an integral part of a successful recovery after gastric sleeve surgery.
By incorporating exercise into your post-operative plan, you will reap the benefits of gastric sleeve and speed up weight loss, improve your overall health, and achieve long-term success in your weight loss journey.
Beltre Bariatrics proudly offers post-operative support to help you successfully incorporate a personalized workout routine into your regular life, so you can enjoy the health and weight loss benefits of gastric sleeve long after surgery is complete.
Contact our team of bariatric experts today to schedule an appointment and determine if gastric sleeve surgery is right for you.
