In addition to the surgery, support and nutrition plans, an exercise program is important to a successful weight-loss treatment.

Walking

In the days just after surgery, the best exercise is walking. Remember, every step counts! As you start feeling better, slowly begin increasing both your distance and speed with each session. The goal is to walk (or perform another type of intentional exercise such as swimming) for at least 30-50 continuous minutes every day. Just after surgery, this may be especially difficult, but you will continue to build up toward this goal.

Building Your Exercise Program

About three weeks after surgery, you should add to your exercise program by continuing to walk but also adding strength conditioning exercises. It may be beneficial to join a gym, recreation center or health club. Water exercises also can be a very helpful addition to your exercise program.

Remember, exercise not only burns calories, but also increases your basic metabolic rate. Therefore, at rest, your body will continue to burn more calories.

Exercise Log

Current patients, check out some exercise tips and download an exercise log to keep track of daily activity.