So at 5 weeks out I was cleared to start exercising (was delayed because the muscle was really sore where they cut it) but everything I want to do, other than walking on a treadmill, takes core muscles. Does anyone have a workout routine that gentle gets your core back into shape, without straining it tooooo much? I was thinking of doing a light pilates dvd, but thought I'd see if anyone had any suggestions on here first

I would try a beginners pilates or beginners yoga. Because you only do what you can do, that's probably the easiest way to start.

PIlates in my opinion may be less forgiving than yoga. I have been doing yoga for over 20 years so I am biased!

here is a website I keep a very inexpensive subscription to to show friends and fam how to begin, to be abel to practice and the have bariatric yoga also:

http://www.medicineyoga.com/index.php

this is an OK review for the book 'yoga for wimps' - I do not like the new pic of someone stuffing their face - as if to imply this is for people who are lazy overeaters - because it isn't - could be, lol, but isn't. I am not saying buy it from here! It just has lots of info. There is a DVD also but I do not keep the dvd.

http://video.barnesa.../e/743452186228

core exercizes are essential, and many things can still be done in modificaton as long as the modification stil supports the same muscles being used - remember at first core training seeks to make your brain remember how to do these things - you re-wire! like an older computer getting an upgrade - except you have no obsolete parts. Do not be afraid if you shake - literally or feel awkward. For the stand up exercizes utilize a finger or two on a chair or wall.

If you need one-on-one help with yoga see if you can find an instructor that does free or donation-only yoga classes (If you can afford classses this is stil a great option. Donate what you would pay). I think alot of times these instructors are so overwhelmingly happy to assist someone in our position you get almost 1 on 1 care. Bariatric yoga is a newer term and it is gaining credibility fast.

In a year you will be doing acro-yoga. I hope to be!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acroyoga

I dislike wiki overall but decent info on acro yoga.

PS - Even the most basic rotating of your hands and feet will help - never omit the small things!

If you want more info let me know - I will help all I can.

update. Success!! I was able to walk on the treadmill last night for 30 minutes and then do some light weightlifting on my arms (light-like 10 lbs but no pain in my side like before. I'm really excited to go home and do it again tonight! Its amazing when your body will actually respond to what you are doing instead of working your butt off in (what feels like) vain. I did some stomach engaging moves will walking (like bring my knees up) and that seemed okay too. Thanks for your encouragement pookey and circa