OK, let's talk about exercise

Moving right along in my journey toward WLS, I had my class with the nutritionist today.  During this class, it was really emphasized just how important exercise after surgery is.  Now that's OK with me, but I'm thinking walking a little ... even a lot.  But what they're talking about is more than walking.  They're not even talking about things like going to Curves.  What they're pushing is aerobics and strength training with free weights. Are all of you doing this much to exercise on a regular basis or are most of you just walking.  An inquisitive mind needs to know. Sue

How much exercise you do is entirely up to you. Some of us just walk, others are into some serious gym time. I happen to have free access to a fitness center at work. I do 30 minutes on the treadmill and another 30 minutes with machines and free weights. However, I have not been consistent and I know I would be more toned if I would stick to my routine better.  I do know that the more you move, whether it is walking, dancing, whatever, the faster you will lose and you will have better muscle tone. That is not saying you have to sweat it out at the gym. A lot of people use tapes like Leslie Sansone's Walk Away The Pounds. Others dance around their house while doing housework.  Anything that gets you moving more than normal is exercise. Find what works for you. If it's something you enjoy you are more likely to do it consistently.

Hi Sue. Like Susan said, it is entirely up to you what type of exercise you do. Although it is important to do something. I know for the first 6 months after surgery, I was going to Contours Express at about 4 times a week. That is like Curves with a circuit with aerobics inbetween weight machines. Now, I do not go to that anymore (although I should because I am still paying for it!) but I speed walk two miles during lunch every day. I know the first 6 months will be important with some sort of weight training so that you can prevent a lot of sagging skin. At least that is what I was told but I had a lot of weight to lose and I have a lot of sagging skin even with all of the weight training I did so I can not honestly say that works! Either way, I think your nutritionist is just trying to make sure you get started with something and are able to stick with some sort of exercise on a regular basis. Afterall, the surgery is a tool but you have to make a lifestyle change as well. Walking is always the best form of exercise and is something that you can do anytime and get accoustomed to sticking with forever.

Hi Sue, Yes I agree with the ladies that it is up to you how much and what kind of exercise you do, but I think you will be surprised at how much you will actually like and want to exercise after you start to lose weight.  Exercise never used to be in my vocabulary before and now I can't get enough of it.  I've been able to work up to 1 hour to 1 1/2 hours 5 to 6 days a week.  3 days a week I do 30 minutes on the eliptical machine and 30 on my exercise bike with one of those days adding weight training. I also have one day where I do water aerobics and then on Saturdays I've got my latin aerobics dance class.  Not everyone may prefer those things, so find something that you like and make sure to vary your routine ever three weeks by adding something different or increasing the time.  Your body gets used to the routine and will slow down (that's according to my trainer). Exercise really makes a difference in the weight loss and I'm convinced that if I hadn't done the exercise I would not have lost as much weight as I have so far.  Anyway, I hope this helps.  Good luck. -Alyssa

Alyssa,

        Where do you take latin aerobics dance class? I would love to do something like that. I've been wanting to find  a adult tap dancing class too, that is some fun exercise.

                                                                                  Thanks Sue

Hey Sue, I take the zumba classes at the Donelson-Hermitage YMCA at noon on Saturdays.  I'm going to have to find another class to go to, because I'll be starting graduate classes on Saturdays in October.  You should go to the class, it's a good workout and really fun too!   -Alyssa

hi Sue, I havent been on lately but I have started the wellness center that goes along with dr.collquitt,  Its been great .  I had a trainer to show me then i do almost a hour in the water.  As far as you capsule meds go I talked to someone that hes taken all her meds so I dont think that you have a worry there.  but I am 4 months out and just started my 3 months I LOVE IT. Annrenee