Bariatric Surgery and Exercise
Weight Loss Success
Exercise is an essential part of your weight loss journey and plays a key role in improving your health, maintaining strength, increasing energy, and achieving long-term success after bariatric surgery. Research shows that patients who exercise regularly lose weight more effectively and are more likely to maintain their weight loss.
Connecting With You
At Baxter Fitness, we believe every successful exercise program begins by listening. We take the time to understand your goals, your concerns, and your unique needs, then work closely with you—and within your doctor's recommendations—to create a safe, effective exercise plan that's right for you. We value the conversations before, during, and after your workout just as much as the workout itself, because monitoring your progress, challenges, and successes is an essential part of helping you achieve lasting results.
No “Gym Culture”
There is no "gym culture" here: no mirrors, no loud music, and no intimidation. Instead, you'll find a welcoming, supportive environment where people like you are working toward lifespan goals.
Exercise after Bariatric Surgery Timeline
Always contact your physician before starting any exercise program!
1 Month After Surgery
Focus on healing and returning to daily activities.
-
Walking (start with 10 minutes and gradually work up to 30 minutes most days)
-
Gentle stretching and flexibility exercises
-
Deep breathing exercises
-
Light daily movement
Avoid abdominal exercises for 8–12 weeks or until your surgeon clears you.
2–3 Months After Surgery
Increase your activity as tolerated.
-
Stationary bike or elliptical
-
Water aerobics
-
Continue walking
-
Begin strength training only after medical clearance
-
Light jogging if approved by your physician
Balance may be affected during rapid weight loss. Use caution with activities such as yoga, Pilates, and Zumba.
4-6 Months After Surgery
Most patients can safely participate in a wider variety of activities after physician approval, including:
-
Swimming
-
Hiking
-
Yoga
-
Weight training
-
Kettlebell exercises
Continue both cardiovascular exercise and strength training while listening to your body and allowing adequate recovery.
6-12 Months After Surgery
Aim for:
-
45 minutes of exercise, 3–5 days per week
Increase resistance training to strengthen:
-
Core
-
Legs
-
Upper body
Add more challenging activities such as:
-
Interval walking or jogging
-
Aerobics
-
Kickboxing (if appropriate)
1 Year and Beyond
Congratulations! By maintaining regular exercise, you'll continue to:
-
Preserve muscle mass
-
Improve strength and endurance
-
Support lifelong weight management
-
Enhance your overall health and quality of life
References:
-
Pouwels S, Wit M, Teijink JA, Nienhuijs SW. Aspects of Exercise before or after Bariatric Surgery: A Systematic Review. Obesity Facts.
-
2015;8(2):132-146.
-
Jeffrey I. Mechanick et al. / Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases 16 (2020) 175 - 247.
-
King WC, Bond DS. The importance of preoperative and postoperative physical activity counseling in bariatric surgery. Exerc Sport Sci Rev.
-
2013;41(1):26-35.
BAXTER FITNESS PROVIDES
-
Comfortable, supportive environment
-
Expert exercise instruction
-
Individualized guidance
-
Non-judgmental atmosphere
Keys to Success
-
Regular resistance (strength) training
-
Low-impact aerobic exercise
-
Flexibility and balance training
-
Gradual progression based on your recovery
CONTACT US
CONTACT US
MEDFORD LOCATION
Tel. 541-776-9813
Fax. 541-776-9814
727 Medford Center
Exercise is a lifelong commitment that helps protect your investment in bariatric surgery.
Baxter Fitness is part of your healthcare team. Contact us anytime if you need motivation, exercise modifications, additional instruction, or help progressing your fitness program.
HELPFUL LINKS
