When did you join a gym?

[Apple203 1,314]

After some research, I found a gym that I really like -- traditional gym stuff, plus a heavy focus on pilates, yoga, barre and TRX classes. But, I wonder if I am fit enough at 2 months to tackle gym classes? How long did you wait to join a gym?

Edited May 16, 2018 by Apple203

[KimTriesRNY 1,853]

Lol. This vote is all or nothing so far.

[Kay07 734]

I am very interested in this as well. Especially if people decided to get a personal trainer. I was hoping to join at 2 or 3months post op with a PT once or twice a week. They are just so expensive around here.

[Apple203 1,314]

27 minutes ago, Kay07 said:

I am very interested in this as well. Especially if people decided to get a personal trainer. I was hoping to join at 2 or 3months post op with a PT once or twice a week. They are just so expensive around here.

I'm thinking about starting with a personal trainer at this gym, too, when I do join. They have a discounted rate for new members -- 5 sessions for $200.

[brightfaith 187]

I have been exercising at gym for a while and worked up to 6-7 days per week pre-op. Four days a week in the pool and three days a week strength training and using the recumbent stepper. I am recently post op and not going at the moment (just walking outside while I am off work) but will go back as soon as I am able to get in the pool again. I am planning to buy three or four personal training sessions when I am a couple of months post op to help me design a workout using body weight exercises that is a little more challenging for me. I would love to try yoga or Pilates or Body Pump but don’t think I would be able to keep up and so am reluctant to try those at this point—maybe if I can build some confidence on my own with body weight exercises I can convince myself to try a class.

I love going to the gym. Exercise has gone from being a struggle to being a must-do stress reliever over time. I am really itching to go back and would really like these incisions to heal already so that I can get back in the pool. Hoping I can do it in another week or so.

[Healthy_life2 8,324]

I had a treadmill at home for exercise. My third month I had a major stall. I had to reevaluate what I was doing. My treadmill was being used more to hang clothing on than exercise. (story of my life)

I sold the treadmill on craigslist and bought a gym membership in my third month.

@Apple203 You are fit enough! All of us have a starting point. The gym will help build your fitness level.

[Bryn910 519]

I have already had a gym membership for years prior to my surgery

if people do not like the atmosphere of gyms...I recommend Fitness Blender on YouTube for at home exercises. I used them for a while and gained so much strength and lost weight. I only purchased interchangeable dumbbells and they show you how to modify the exercises.

i absolutely despise gym trainers. Make sure you check their credentials before signing up with them. Most get their training via online 6 week courses. I would rather spend money on a certified sport conditioning specialist

[Apple203 1,314]

OK, I'm starting to feel a little more confident -- you guys rock!! This gym has entry level classes for "post-rehab and beginner wellness programs", like stretch & balance, core, monthly workshops for yoga and TXR newbies, and a series of recommended small focus classes for pilates newbies. There is a weight circuit that you set up with a personal trainer that is computerized with your settings and reps -- I thought that was interesting.

Edited May 16, 2018 by Apple203

[GreenTealael 25,359]

I joined 5 months after surgery


HW 270 SW 238 CW 176 VSG 11/7

[Healthy_life2 8,324]

Not trying to hijack or take away from your poll.

Visit and check out gyms in your area before you join. It's finding your comfort zone. Some are more family friendly. Ask the staff what hours are less crowded.

[Diana_in_Philly 1,426]

I had been a member of our local Y for a year or so before I started the process, but as soon as I had my first appointment, I set up a meeting with a personal trainer and started developing a plan to help as I moved toward surgery and then after. I continued working with her until she moved to Colorado for graduate work a year after my surgery. About three months after that I changed gyms because I felt I wasn't getting what I needed from the Y, so I echo the comments about visiting and trying out various places. I love my gym and work out there 4-6 hours a week. (I also spend another 5 hours a week at my fencing club - I've taken up fencing.)

Find something you love to do and do it. At this point - about 20 month post-op, I get grumpy if I don't work out.