Exercise is critical for gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and lap band patients. It’s key for weight loss, building muscle mass, relieving stress, improving sleep, and so much more. For a variety of reasons, many bariatric patients prefer to skip the gym and exercise at home. If you can do it consistently and safely, exercising at home can be a great choice.
Body weight exercises and aerobic activities (like dancing, jogging, walking, or swimming) can easily be done at home without any equipment. But there are some simple pieces of exercise equipment that can expand your exercise routine while promoting weight loss and muscle gain.
- Resistance Bands- These stretchy bands can be added to several of your arm, leg, and core exercises to amplify your workout. They are inexpensive and come in a variety of sizes and resistance levels, allowing you to pick the best option for you.
- Dumbbells- Dumbbells are another versatile and inexpensive at home strength training equipment. A quick web search of dumbbell workouts can show you ways to use these small weights in ways that are easy to use, effective, and very creative.
- Kettlebells- Kettlebells are great for core strength, dynamic balance, and also for boosting your aerobic capacity according the American Council on Exercise.
- Doorway Pull Up Bar- For far less than a pair of sneakers, you can buy a doorway pull up bar. These are easy to install and can be kept in a not so obvious doorway so they don’t intrude on your nice spaces. Chin ups and pull ups can be great exercises for more than just your arms, you’ll find your back and core get a good work out too (even if you’re still working to master the full pull up or chin up). You can also add in some core exercises like knees to elbows, L-sits, or tuck holds.
Gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and lap band patients should only begin exercising after being cleared by Dr. Shillingford, MD, PA, or their bariatric surgeon. Once cleared for exercise and strength training, it’s best to start slowly and listen to your body. If you are choosing equipment, it’s a good choice to err on the side of buying lighter equipment. You can always increase your reps of a light weight, and upgrade when you’ve mastered that size. Choosing a weight that is too heavy can lead to injuries. If you don’t know how to begin these exercises, consider going to the gym or hiring a trainer.
For more information on weight loss with gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, or lap band surgery, call Dr. Shillingford’s Boca Raton office today at (561) 483-8840. Dr. Shillingford accepts most health insurance carriers, and his office staff will help you navigate this process as smoothly as possible. His weight loss surgery patients receive outstanding care during their stay at Northwest Medical Center’s Center of Excellence in Bariatric Surgery, where Dr. Shillingford proudly serves as Medical Director.
