You’ve had weight loss surgery—now what? After meeting with your weight loss surgeon and talking about the impact that weight loss surgery can have on your life and health goals, you probably are well aware that bariatric surgery is not the end-all-and-be-all of your weight loss program, but is instead one of the first steps that can guide you towards achieving long-term weight loss success.

Still, with all of the anticipation and focus that goes into the actual weight loss surgery procedure, it is easy to overlook the strategies that will help you be successful in meeting your weight loss goals after your operation is complete.

Even if you started a regular workout routine prior to your bariatric operation, you’ll still need to make adjustments to your exercise habits following your procedure. Aside from helping with weight loss, getting active in the days following your weight loss procedure can actually enhance healing, helping you feel back to normal in no time at all.

Here are the top tips you need to know about exercise after weight loss surgery:

• Don’t attempt to jump into doing too much, too quick. Begin your exercise program slowly and gradually, and increase as you feel able.
• Get rid of that “no pain, no gain” frame of mind. If something hurts, then stop doing it. Exercise should push your body, but it shouldn’t cause immediate pain.
• Keep yourself interested in your workouts by mixing it up. Try walking a few days a week, and maybe taking a lightweight aerobics class on other days. The more you mix up your workout, the more interested you’ll remain.
• Find yourself a workout buddy who will commit to working out with you. Having a friend who wants to stay active with you is a great way to keep yourself accountable and interested in your workout routine.

Also keep in mind that after weight loss surgery you’ll need to be careful to stay hydrated throughout the entire day. In the past you may have downed an entire water bottle in a few short gulps to keep your fluid levels high, but after surgery that won’t be an option. Chugging water like that may cause you to throw up and can lead to severe discomfort. Take small sips of water throughout the day to stay as hydrated as possible, especially as you begin to increase your daily activity level.

Before you try any new workout routine, check in with your weight loss surgeon to ensure that you are ready for physical activity.  Once your surgeon says you are ready to get up and move around, start slow and ease your way into a regular workout routine. The more active you are after weight loss surgery, the more likely you are to reach your weight loss goals.