The Best Outdoor Exercises After Weight Loss Surgery with Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding, NYU Langone Bariatric Surgeon

Spring is an inspiring time of year. It is the perfect weather to get outside and make progress on your weight loss goals. After weight loss surgery, you will have a new health and eating plan. Exercise is a vital part of healthy weight loss. If you have been feeling unmotivated in your exercise plan lately, try some outdoor exercises. The following are ideas from Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding on getting outside and making the warm weather work for you.

Gear Up for Unpredictable Weather

Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding reminds her readers that just because it’s spring doesn’t mean it’s sunny every day! With the right plan and outdoor gear, you benefit from working out outside no matter what the weather. Remember the following tips as you plan your spring exercises:

• Layer! Check the weather and make sure to layer your clothes. Keeping a sleeveless workout top underneath a zippered sweatshirt is a perfect example. You may start off cool, but you’ll soon warm up and you’ll want to adjust your outfit to stay comfortable.
• Choose fabrics carefully. Cotton tends to absorb more sweat, but can stay moist during a workout. Nylon is breathable and holds up to lots of movement during workouts. Polyester is lightweight and breathable, repels UV rays and pulls moisture away from your skin.
• Check your sneakers. It might be time for a new pair. Typically, a pair of walking sneakers lasts anywhere from 6 to 9 months. This also depends on how far and often you’re walking. When beginning a new exercise routine after weight loss surgery, it is a good idea to start fresh with new sneakers. Read about choosing the best walking shoe carefully before you purchase a new pair.
• Start slowly. After weight loss surgery and your doctor’s approval, ease into a new exercise routine. Doing too much too quickly could lead to muscle strain or injury. For example, walking experts recommend increasing your distance by 10% at a time.

Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding on the Best Outdoor Exercise After Weight Loss Surgery

After weight loss, or bariatric, surgery your doctor will lead you through the recovery process. Soon you will be able to start incorporating exercise into your daily routine. There are many activities you can do that aren’t in a gym. Here are some exercises to try this year:

• Walking. This is the simplest and most effective exercise for healthy weight loss. Choose a walking plan approved by your doctor, and add a small amount of distance each day. Being outdoors will help you stay motivated and you can explore new areas where you live.

• Stretching. It is important to warm up and cool down before exercise. This includes leg stretches for activities like walking and cycling. Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding reminds all her patients that daily stretching prevents injury and helps with flexibility.

• Yoga. This is a great way to improve flexibility and strength. The added benefits of yoga include relaxation and focus. Once you understand basic yoga poses, go outside. The benefits of practicing yoga in nature include increased mindfulness and more effective meditation.

• Cycling. This low-impact exercise is perfect for people who are working to lose weight. It’s a healthy and fun way to add movement to your life on daily basis.

Finally, remember that the spring is the best time to begin an exercise routine after weight loss surgery. Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding says let the warm weather inspire you this spring and bring your overall health into focus.

Are you interested in learning would like to know more about your weight loss options, consult an expert like Dr. Ren-Fielding, NYU Weight Management Program bariatric surgeon. Visit the NYU Langone Weight Management Program for more information.