Is using a PT pre-op worth it or a waste of time? I want to build lean muscle and tone up so after surgery, the loose skin won't be as bad. I know that after surgery, I'll probably go back and continue using one until I reach my goal.

I had a personal trainer set up a workout routine for me 8 weeks before surgery. I then worked out on my own following that workout routine. My goal was to be as fit as possible going into surgery, which would help when I picked up exercise again after surgery. That seemed to work for me.

After surgery I signed up for a medical integration program at a health center affiliated with the hospital. I started after the surgeon cleared me (about a month after surgery) and the program lasted 2 months. They set up an exercise program taking into account what surgery I had and what my goals were. Once I graduated from the medical integration program, I went to a "normal" gym and signed up for small group fitness training.

Why would working with a trainer before surgery be a "waste of time?" Under any circumstances, moving is better than not moving. It follows that moving correctly, working out in proper form, is safer than moving with no knowledge of safety and effectiveness.

Finding the "right" personal trainer is the issue. You may or may not click with the first one. It's best to begin this relationship, discuss goals and such asap. Be upfront and honest with your pending surgery. I was lucky to have a connection with my PT but sadly she sold her business and I couldn't find that connection with those that took over. Now I'm kinda without direction or the know how.

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Thanks for the replies. My worry is that whoever I decide on getting a PT will try to talk me out of getting surgery. I'm planning to test one out after my initial physical next week. Let see what happens.

Definitely don't let them rock the boat..remember you're employing them.

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Edited March 23, 201610 yr by cindyw41

Thanks for the replies. My worry is that whoever I decide on getting a PT will try to talk me out of getting surgery. I'm planning to test one out after my initial physical next week. Let see what happens.

I didn't tell my PT pre or post op about my WLS, it was simply none of her business.

@@BeeRodMul

Most physical trainers in America available at most commercial gyms, need trainers themselves. They don't have the physique to match the title. It is also very easy to obtain a certification and it doesn't mean they actually know anything. They also offer nutritional advice and at most gyms are required to try and push supplements.

Unless you can find a really good one, from a personal recommendation, it isn't worth it. If accountability and sticking to something is your issue, group classes are a great place to start. Unless you have no idea how to use gym equipment, trainers are a waste, unless you can find someone REALLY good, with a lot of clients and a lot of results.

If you are serious about adding muscle and trying to minimize loose skin, find a good Yoga studio would be a better option. Yoga uses every muscle in your body, every pose can be adjusted to your fitness level. Yoga helps manage stress with makes weight loss easier and the environment is more mellow and friendly. The stretching that comes with yoga is very good for your skin and the skin elasticity not to mention the poses in yoga help flush toxins from your body.

Edited March 25, 201610 yr by OutsideMatchInside

I'm having surgery on 3/31 at University of Illinois Chicago. I've been participating in a research study with the Physical and Occupational Therapist department. They did a battery of blood work and physical endurance testing (not as bad as it sounds) and came up with a workout routine for me. Every week I work out with graduate students as my trainers. During surgery they are going to take a small tissue sample. They believe that exercise prior to bariatric surgery has a huge impact on fat cells and weight loss due to increased metabolism.

It's been fun and interesting. They've kicked my butt, but they're also paying me (which is a change).

I guess all of that was to say- it's ok to exercise pre surgery and there are professionals who think it helps to make surgery easier and more successful

I've done yoga in the past! However, instructors I've encountered barely ever modify for beginners.

It also sucks when you're working out at a community center than the only classes are Zumba and PiYo.

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I go to a wellness center affiliated with a local hospital. They work daily with people of all weights, sizes, physical abilities, and ages. See if you have something similar near you. I have found the staff to be extremely knowledgeable and accommodating/adaptable, but more importantly they are very encouraging.