As with any weight loss program, having a surgical weight loss procedure also requires a patient to include an exercise regime in order to be successful. Patients should always consult their doctor before starting a work-out routine and never do anything while exercising that is painful.
After surgery it is very important to re-build your core muscle group. Most trainers will tell you that this is key for building your strength and stamina. One of the most common tools that a person can use to develop their core is the therapeutic ball.
In a recent session with Susan Finigan, a personal trainer at the YMCA in Marblehead, MA we determined that many of these ball exercises require a person to lay on their stomach on the ball. This is very uncomfortable for lap-band patients who have an abdominal port. Susan provided some alternative exercises that can be done on the ball but do not require laying on the stomach.
All exercises should be done in two reps of 12 until you can build to more reps. See the slide show for images:
- Sitting opposite arm and leg raise - raise opposite leg and arm and return. Repeat with opposite limbs.
- Sitting to bride position - From sitting position, roll ball forward into bridging position with ball under shoulders. Do not let hips sag, return to sitting position.
- Hip extension bridging with heels on ball - with heels resting on ball, lift hips off floor and return. Keep knees straight.
Again, it is important to consult your doctor before beginning any exercise program. Personal training sessions with Susan Finigan at the YMCA are available for member and non-members. For rates and availability contact the YMCA at 781-631-1819 or visit their website.
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