Returning to Exercise After Surgery- How to Get Back into Strength Training

https://youtu.be/HRduG6LpObU

Morgan, with the assistance of Nancy—who has recently undergone major abdominal surgery—will demonstrate how to safely return to exercising after surgery. It’s essential to consult your doctor first to ensure you are cleared to resume physical activity.

If you are planning for a major surgery, such as a joint replacement or C-section, or have had an unexpected surgery and want to return to exercise, here are some steps to follow once you receive the green light from your doctor.

Start with diaphragmatic breathing to reconnect with your body. Nancy will lie on her back with her knees bent, placing one hand on her chest and the other on her abdomen. She will take a deep breath in and then exhale, engaging her abdominal muscles. This practice helps strengthen the connection with your core and can often be performed prior to starting more strenuous exercises.

Once you feel ready, re-engage your abs with simple movements. Nancy will lift both feet into the air, and as she exhales, she will lower one foot at a time while keeping her lower back pressed into the mat. If this proves too challenging, you can keep one foot on the floor and alternate legs.

When you’re ready to resume your full workout routine, opt for exercises that you can perform on machines or while seated. For instance, Nancy will demonstrate using a leg extension machine at a low weight to promote blood flow. Focus on your breathing throughout the process, and remember that isolating different muscle groups away from the surgery site can facilitate a smoother transition back into exercise.

Begin with low intensity and volume in those early workouts. It’s easy to overextend yourself and feel fatigued afterward. Pay attention to your body, select a few high-quality exercises, and gradually increase the complexity and weight as your energy returns. If you're unsure how to get back into exercising after surgery, come visit us at Breakthrough Fitness. We’d be happy to help with a free Discovery Session.