I'm three weeks post-op and the only "exercise" I've done so far is just walking (on a flat surface).

I don't really feel this is that great of a workout, though. I'd really like to start going to a gym and do the eliptical machine, start swimming, etc. BUT, I don't want to risk my health. I know the band is at risk for slipping especially right after surgery, and doing vigorous exercise might cause the band to shift positions.

So my question is: when do you think it's safe to step up my exercise routine? How long until you all started exercising more aggressively?

Thanks in advance for any input!

Hi Angela... Welcome to Bandland!

I started walking right away. I gradually started adding other things. Riding my bike. I couldn't go to swimming for 6 weeks.

Today ... this NO EXCERSISE person, works out every day. It is a great way of life.

Good Luck

I'm three weeks post-op and the only "exercise" I've done so far is just walking (on a flat surface).

I don't really feel this is that great of a workout, though. I'd really like to start going to a gym and do the eliptical machine, start swimming, etc. BUT, I don't want to risk my health. I know the band is at risk for slipping especially right after surgery, and doing vigorous exercise might cause the band to shift positions.

So my question is: when do you think it's safe to step up my exercise routine? How long until you all started exercising more aggressively?

Thanks in advance for any input!

I was out walking a week after the surgery, but did not exercise for 6 weeks. The difference is that lifting with your arms requires the tensioning of muscles going through the abdomen which could cause a problem with the healing of the incisions.

I was walking about an hour each day after the 2nd week.

Exercise does not only build up the muscles being used, but helps the muscle tone of the muscles all over the body. Walking for an hour will build up your arms, back, etc. and it will cause those other muscles to tone up.

I took about a week off, maybe two weeks, then I was back at my pilaties, walking, abs, and I think week three I started horseback riding.

walked from day 1

started elliptical on day 22. later that week, started working with small barbells (2 or 3 lbs) doing arm exercises.

Walking is a great exercise! I started doing it right after first week. I started going to the gym 8 weeks post-op. (my doctor said I could go 4 weeks after surgery and take it up slowly, but I wanted to bet on the safe side...)

niki

Walked from day one bt am actually serious about it now.