Step-By-Step Exercise Regimen: Pre and Post Gastric Bypass Surgery

Published on December 22 , 2017 | 4 Minutes to Read

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Many people opt for gastric bypass surgery in Perth and other Australian cities to combat morbid obesity and associated disorders, such as sleep apnea and type-2 diabetes. Gastric bypass surgery is widely accepted as the “gold standard” for bariatric surgery however its success largely depends on the patient’s lifestyle pre and post-surgery. Exercises, for instance, help increase the body’s metabolism and govern the rate at which it can shed the excess weight post surgery. Continuing the discussion, the blog post discusses a comprehensive exercise plan that every bariatric patient must follow before and after surgery to ensure success of the weight loss surgery. Take a look.

M6- 12 Months Before Surgery

The primary goal of pre-bariatric exercise is to supply oxygenated blood to the heart, which in turn helps in the development of muscles and maintaining lean body mass, after bariatric surgery. It is recommended that morbidly obese patients first get a cardiac evaluation before getting started with any exercise routine. Bariatric doctors suggest that gastric bypass patients kick off their exercise regimen by walking for 10 minutes, twice a day and gradually increasing the duration of the walks. By doing this, a bariatric patient can ensure that their body only loses the excess body fat with the bariatric procedure and not muscle mass.

M1-6 Months After Surgery

Morbidly obese patients sometimes feel that they have got the monkey off their back after successfully undergoing gastric bypass surgery. However, the job is only half done. The real challenge starts post-surgery as they have to adapt to a healthy lifestyle to sustain the weight loss results. Once the rest period is over and the bariatric surgeon gives the nod, the patient can start with low-impact exercises, such as leg lifts, shoulder rolls, arm rotations, and walking. Subsequently, the patient can opt for strength training exercises, which help build muscle, burn calories, improve body balance and endurance. A short burst of cycling and water aerobics can also prove beneficial.

M6-12 Months After Surgery

Most of the patients can expect to shed 60 to 80 percent of the excess body weight within 18 months of undergoing gastric bypass. It may prompt many to give up on the exercise regimen, but doing that can have adverse effects, as there is always a possibility of regaining the lost weight post-surgery. Individuals who stick to the exercise regimen experience increased stamina and strength that sees them perform a 45-minute exercise session. During this time the primary focus should be on strengthening the stomach muscles. Exercises such as aerobics, yoga, and dancing can help strengthen the stomach muscles. All these activities should be performed under the supervision of an instructor to avoid potential complications.

Related Read: 6 Exercises to Stay Fit after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery

MOne Year After Surgery

A year after rigorous post-surgery hard work, many people either cut down on the exercises or stop performing them altogether, which may lead to weight regain. This is the reason why bariatric surgeons advise the patients to never compromise on healthy lifestyle. Sticking to a basic exercise regimen comprising of diverse activities, such as swimming, bicycle riding, hiking, interval and weight training can help maintain a definite body weight.

Related Read: Bariatric Surgery: Exercise Your Way to the Desired Results,/p>

MThe Bottom Line

Any person undergoing gastric bypass surgery in Perth or elsewhere wouldn’t like to regain weight and there are two simple ways to prevent it – Regular Exercise and Healthy Diet. Through a dedicated exercise regimen, a person not only expedites the weight loss results, but is also able to feel better from within. If you or someone you know is struggling with morbid obesity and have lost hope in the conventional methods, Perth Surgical and Bariatrics can help you shed the extra kilos. We are a renowned bariatric clinic based out of Perth, Australia with an experienced team to assist you in losing weight through gastric bypass surgery and other suitable methods. To learn more about our weight loss program, fill out our contact form or simply call us at 08 6558 1901.