Many of the people who bariatric surgery, they assume that the post-operative weight loss is simply less of a result. Absorption of calories or loss of appetite and consumption of less food. But in fact, exercise plays a very important role in stabilizing thinness, preventing complications slimming operation, improves general health and even improves mood. Let's examine why exercise is necessary after bariatric surgery. When should we start exercising? And what exercises are suitable for people after bariatric surgery?

The role of exercise after bariatric surgery

Why do doctors recommend exercise after bariatric surgery? Even if your action is by best bariatric surgeon has also been done, it is necessary to do sports by observing the necessary tips to maintain weight and slimness.

1- Stabilizing weight loss and preventing the return of obesity

After bariatric surgery (either sleeve operation, or gastric bypass surgery or any other surgery), the body naturally enters a phase of slimming and rapid weight loss. This weight loss is mainly due to a sharp reduction in food and calorie intake, but the body gets used to these new conditions and after a while, the weight loss rate slows down. This is where exercise comes in.

• causes an increase in basal metabolic rate (BMR); It means that the body burns more calories even while resting.

• Prevention of muscle wasting: If you don't exercise, the body will lose muscle in addition to fat, which will reduce metabolism.

• People who regularly include exercise in their daily schedule, according to research, between 25 to 35% more than others have a stable weight loss and the possibility Back The weight after weight loss surgery is less in them.

For example, if a person reaches a stable weight 3 months after bariatric surgery and weight loss does not continue, incorporating daily aerobic exercise (eg brisk walking or stationary bike for 30 minutes) can reactivate weight loss.

2- Preventing skin loosening and muscle wasting

One of the concerns of people, Loose skin after weight loss surgery and a loose appearance of the body. When a lot of weight is lost in a short period of time, the skin does not have enough time to contract; Especially if there is no muscle under it to hold the structure of the skin from the inside.

• Strength and resistance exercises help build new muscle.

• Muscles are the tissues that support the skin and give the body a firmer appearance.

• Even simple exercises such as squats or swedish swimming with body weight at home will eventually help maintain body shape.

+A person who has lost 40 kg of weight, if he does strength training such as working with light dumbbells or resistance bands 3 times a week, the probability of sagging skin will decrease by 40%.

3- Prevention of post-operative depression

In the first months after bariatric surgery, many patients face mood swings, feelings of confusion, lack of motivation and even mild or severe depression. This condition may be caused by rapid weight loss, hormonal changes, dietary restrictions, or even the fear of regaining the weight. What is the role of sports in this field?

• secretion of endorphin, dopamine and serotonin with more physical activity will be These hormones are directly related to mood, relaxation and motivation.

• Regular exercise makes a person feel have more control over his body and life.

• Creating a sense of accomplishment (for example, walking 2 kilometers) in a person increases self-confidence.

How long should we start exercising after bariatric surgery?

First week: light movement and walking at home

At this stage, the goal is to prevent blood clots and increase blood circulation. Light walking at home, even for 5 to 10 minutes at a time, is recommended. Simple stretching movements can also be effective.

Second to fourth week: gradual increase in physical activity

In this period of time, a person can walk for 15 to 20 minutes daily and do breathing exercises. If there are no surgical complications, the doctor may allow more exercises to begin.

Second month onwards: start training

From the sixth week onwards, a person is usually ready to start strength training and gentle aerobics such as swimming, stationary bike, pilates or yoga. But it is still necessary to consult a doctor or physiotherapist.

What sports are suitable after bariatric surgery?

In choosing the type of exercise, three criteria should be considered: safety, effectiveness, and the possibility of maintaining and stabilizing weight.

Sample exercise program for the first months after bariatric surgery

Suppose Sarah, 35 years old, underwent gastric sleeve surgery and is now at the end of the second week. His suggested schedule for the third to sixth week could be as follows:

3rd to 4th week:

• Daily 2 walks of 15 minutes at an average speed

• Exercise deep breathing 3 times a day

• Simple stretching movements (5 minutes)

5th to 6th week:

• Walk 30 minutes a day

• 3 light yoga sessions per week

• Training with resistance bands (each session 15 minutes)