When can I exercise?

Saintluver · October 28, 2007

I am a week and a half out from surgery. When can I start exercising? Do I really have to wait 6 weeks?

Missy0224 · October 28, 2007

I am a week and a half out from surgery. When can I start exercising? Do I really have to wait 6 weeks?

My doctor told me to start exercising the day after surgery for atleast 30 mins. Of course I didn't. I did not start feeling better for a week. I would ask your doctor when he recommends you to start exercising.

luluc · October 31, 2007

I started "walking" immediately & when I felt better, which was around day 8, I increased my time. Since then I have progressed to walking an hour a day...taking it slow. As far as weights go , I use my 2lb for my upper body only...Trying not to go full steam for at least 6-8wks per my Surgeon.

TulipStar · October 31, 2007

I started walking every day about a week post op. Then I started going back to the gym around week 4 and got back into the full swing week 6. My dr. recommended 6 weeks, but said that as long as I avoid abdominal exercise, I should be ok at week 4. I am at 7 weeks po and still have tenderness when trying to do ab work, so I am still avoiding it until I feel better.

I exercise 4-5 days a week at the gym, 3 days a week at home.

jmarruda · November 1, 2007

Go slow, you'll have plenty of time later to work out. For now, go for a walk, short walk, long walk, just go slow. And now is so not the time to push yourself. I would give it a month, then after that play it by ear. I would definately not do any strenuous exercises for at least 6 weeks.

Leigh · November 2, 2007

I agree with taking it slow. I started walking again in two weeks, taking it slow. Wait six weeks for weights. You will have plenty of time to work out after you have healed.

colsie · November 12, 2007

I agree - don't rush it. My Doctor said to stick to walking, for the first few weeks. I now also do a bit of gentle gardening but avoid any exercise that will use my abs.

My doctor said that it's not just the visible wounds which you have to take care of, but you must also make sure that you don't make your band slip in the first few weeks.