Your Exercise Timeline After Bariatric Surgery

So, you’ve just had bariatric surgery—congratulations! Your recovery begins now, and soon after, you’ll be able to start your exercise journey. What should your exercise timeline look like after weight-loss surgery? The answer will be slightly different for everyone, depending on factors like the type of surgery you received, your starting weight, and your healing process. 

Your doctor and surgical team will help you design a physical activity routine that fits your needs and goals, and you should always speak with them before incorporating new exercises into your plan after surgery. Below, we have provided an example of what a typical post-bariatric exercise timeline may look like.

Days After Surgery

In the days after surgery, you’ll still be recovering, so it’s important to start slow and listen to your body. If you don’t have much experience with exercise, it’s important to learn the difference between pain and soreness, especially around the site of your laparoscopic incisions. 

Your exercise routine should start just a few days after surgery. Begin talking short 5 to 10-minute walks every day, which will help increase blood flow, speed your recovery, and decrease your chances of blood clots. Aim to build up to 30-minute walks at least 5 days a week. If you find you’re unable to walk continuously for 30 minutes, you can break the time into shorter walks scattered throughout the day.

Avoid anything more strenuous than walking and light, low-impact exercise until 6 weeks after surgery. In addition, avoid lifting over 10 to 15 pounds in the first month after surgery. 

Weeks After Surgery

After you’ve worked your way up to longer walks, usually around 6 weeks after surgery, you can begin incorporating other low-impact exercises to build up basic strength and flexibility. This could include things like unweighted leg and arm lifts or stretches. Refrain from doing abdominal exercises to avoid putting pressure on your incision site in the first 2 or so months after surgery. 

Months After Surgery 

A few months after your procedure, you’ll receive a go-ahead from your doctor to begin more moderate cardio exercises. If your BMI is over 35, you’ll want to ensure these exercises are easier on your joints—cycling and water exercises are great options. You’ll also eventually need to start adding strength training to your workout at least 2 days a week. Be especially careful when starting weightlifting for the first time, and stop immediately if you feel sharp pain or have difficulty breathing.

Exercise is an essential part of your weight-loss journey after bariatric surgery, but it’s important not to neglect the other elements that make up a healthy lifestyle. Nutritious food choices, portion control, proper hydration, and good sleep are all essential to sustainable, lasting weight-loss. 

Wondering if bariatric surgery is right for you? Wellstar Bariatrics can help. Visit our website to find out if you qualify, or contact our office today to get started.