I wanted to get your take on this. On one hand, it makes sense, assuming I am in good physical condition prior to going into surgery and maintain a steady workout routine up until that point. But on the other hand...well, I just don't know. I sent the following questions to my surgeons office. Following that is their response. Your thoughts?

Me: "I have a couple of questions about post-op working out. I know it's supposed to be "just walking" for up to 6 weeks, right? I belly dance and do yoga and would like to work those back into my routines as soon as I safely can. Actually, I am currently scheduled to perform 8 weeks after surgery which will require keeping up my drilling and practice. At what point should I be looking at being able to do these again? What about other exercises like strength training, etc?"

Their reply: "The walking only is for patients that do not do any exercise, you will be able to return to your normal activities much sooner. At 4 weeks you should be able to do everything normally, some patients start with weight routines after 4 weeks. Lifting is the main concern so you do not develop a hernia at the incision sites."

I am exactly a month out today. I feel pretty good. I have been walking on the treadmill and I am planning on going to gym this weekend. I used to go to spinning class and I miss it so much. I am going to try it again and I hope all goes well. I used to take yoga, too and I think you can do it at a month out without issues. If you are already working out now, you shouldn't have a problem at a month out.

I had surgery two week yesterday and went to the doctor on Tuesday for my first check up. My doctor checked my incisions and said they looked good. I don't have any soreness or pains. I asked him about working out and he told me that it was fine to exercise. He said he would hold off on sit ups...but said I can walk, do elliptical, play basketball, wii fitness, and whatever else I felt like doing. He said that if it hurts, don't do it.

I've been walking pretty briskly and haven't had any problems.