You’ve had Lap Band surgery and you’ve made changes to your diet to lose weight—now it’s time to get moving. Exercising after Lap Band surgery is necessary for losing weight and maintaining weight loss long term. If you weren’t regularly active before having Lap Band surgery, starting a new workout routine can be mentally and physically challenging. It’s easier to get into a physical fitness groove by taking it one step at a time.

For several weeks after Lap Band surgery you will not be able to engage in any vigorous activity. However, once your bariatric surgeon clears you for exercise you’ll be free to do almost anything you put your mind to. Because of the location of your access port, contact sports are not recommended but any other activity is unlikely to cause a problem.

Jumpstart your efforts to get physically fit after Lap Band surgery with these strategies:

• Work out at home. Don’t feel like you have to immediately hit the gym to foster a new active lifestyle. There are plenty of activities you can do at home that will get your heart rate pumping and boost your metabolism. Try doing a workout DVD in your living room or walk several laps around your backyard until you break a sweat.
• Find a workout partner. It’s easier to stay committed to a workout session if someone else is counting on you. Ask your friends and family if any of them would like to start a new exercise routine to promote a healthy home environment. Try to choose someone whose activity level is similar to yours, so you don’t have to worry about them pushing you too hard too soon.
• Fitness should be fun. Make sure you choose an activity that you actually enjoy. You’re more likely to stay engaged and motivated to finish an exercise if you’re having a good time while doing it. Think about activities that you’ve found fun or are interested in trying. Maybe you’d like to learn how to tango, try a yoga class or go hiking in a nearby park in St. Petersburg or Tampa. Anything that sparks your interest will help keep you entertained and motivated to lose weight.
• Nurture your body. Starting a new fitness routine is going to be challenging on your body. Make sure you take care of it by staying hydrated at all times and stretching before and after your workouts. The more you work out, the more your body will need quality rest and recovery time—try to get to bed at a decent hour and get at least eight hours of sleep each night.

Don’t attempt to jump into a workout too soon after Lap Band surgery. Once your bariatric surgeon Dr. Gorjala clears you to engage in physical activity, find a workout you enjoy and start slowly. Small incremental improvement is the goal and the best way to avoid injury.