Exercise for the Out of Shape? - ThinnerTimes

Polly D · 04-26-2007, 06:35 PM

Part of the reason I'm considering WLS is because recently my physical fitness has gone waaaaay downhill fast. I guess I crossed some threshhold that now I can't walk far at all without back pain and horrible breathing difficulty.

Any suggestions for things I can do to build up some stamina, strength, endurance? I've been parking ever so slightly further away, walking just a tad more, taking the stairs once in a while. It near about levels me each time, so I'm proud that every day I'm doing small things to try to regain some strength. Other ideas?

Has anyone tried something like a pregnancy back brace (or I suppose they make regular back braces?) to help carry around a tummy of legendary size?

Thanks

LyndasRoom · 04-26-2007, 06:51 PM

Hi Cathy!
Welcome...you sound like me a year ago...I thought of that pregnancy device too...I figured my tummy was giving me back problems. I think you're off to a great start parking farther away...take stairs a little at a time when you can...stationary bikes let you get some cardio in without too much weight bearing...I like my Walk away the pounds DVDs...I worked my way up...

watergirl · 04-26-2007, 07:31 PM

I'm so proud of you! Way to go to think this through. Small steps!

Even though I excercised almost every day before surgery, I was still gaining weight, etc.

This is what inspired me and drove me to increase my distance, stamina and drive just after my surgery. Being so large, I really had no desire to go to a gym.

I signed up for the breast cancer 3 day walk. If you know anything about that, you have to work up to it. It was a challenge and one that I thought was important and one that drove me. It was an amazing transformation, both physically and mentally. After about three months worth of commitment, I was able to RUN on the treadmill!!!!! OMG! That was unbelievable to me pre-op!

But, I will have to share with you that I did not follow through with the breast walk, because I have this problem of asking people for money. I just don't have it in me. I can be on any band-wagon that doesn't ask for money that I feel has done someone wrong or needs emotional or physical support, I'm totally there! But asking for money- I just can't do it. But I then found it impossible to stop walking. I know, amazing! But it get's better! And you will do better!

Okay, here are my thoughts on braces. I loved the rene belt (sp?) when I was pregnant. Professionally, I must tell you the downside. If you use this belt daily, it will make your back muscles weaken and make you more prone to back injury. Don't do it unless you REALLY need it!!!! Get your doctors opinion. In my industry, I see so many back injuries because of back belts. Please use caution.

I wish you all the best!

LisaBoston · 04-26-2007, 07:52 PM

I am a water girl, so I suggest swimming. If you can't swim, then water jogging or waterfit classes. Take it at your own pace. It low impact, easy on the joints and fun. Works a wide variety of muscles.

BethBaugh · 04-27-2007, 06:04 AM

I tried to get as in shape as I could before surgery....and I too used the walk away the pounds videos by Leslie Sansone and worked my way up. I couldn't do a half a mile at first without 30 minutes to recover by my surgery 8 months later I was doing 3 miles even though I still weighed 277 (peak was 319, so it did help me lose weight and get healthier)

And...yes I've heard that water exercises are great for those who find it difficult to exrcise due to pain.

Beth B. in TN

porshh951 · 04-27-2007, 01:48 PM

water is a great low resistance workout. Also might wanna try really low impact machines like the elipitcal. No pounding on you're feet. So it really helps you'rs feet/ankles/hips/lower back area. YOu get a great workout with nothing but, the good soreness not the pain.

Bella · 04-28-2007, 01:56 PM

What you might want to try is Pilates!

Try getting a CD and working on it in your home. Mainly I like this because it makes you stretch and pull and kindof get in touch with your body. Every movement is slow - but after I finish I just feel so good all over. I does something to my muscles that makes them strong too and VERY little pain involved. Just do each routine as far you can ... go slow. Then as time goes by you'll see you can do more and more.

Put on some mood music.

What I've found is that a good stretching session does wonders for me before and after I workout.

And if I don't have time to workout - the stretching in Pilates alone does it for me. Makes me feel good - which is important.

Gina in NY · 04-28-2007, 08:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Polly D

Part of the reason I'm considering WLS is because recently my physical fitness has gone waaaaay downhill fast. I guess I crossed some threshhold that now I can't walk far at all without back pain and horrible breathing difficulty.

Any suggestions for things I can do to build up some stamina, strength, endurance? I've been parking ever so slightly further away, walking just a tad more, taking the stairs once in a while. It near about levels me each time, so I'm proud that every day I'm doing small things to try to regain some strength. Other ideas?

Has anyone tried something like a pregnancy back brace (or I suppose they make regular back braces?) to help carry around a tummy of legendary size?

Thanks

I hate to say anthing too shocking, (not) but you may want to try out your local gym. I would sugget a recumbant bike at first if your back bothers you. I am actually going to become a trainer in a class called, "Group Active" which is just for foks just starting to get into shape. Check out your area and see what is out there.

Also - I agree - water aroebics is awesome. (I say that as if I've done it) but I know it is really good for your body - all low impact.

The number one thing to remember is that ANYTHINg you do is good. If you are feeling like even walking is tough, there are even videos for "chair" workouts. You could use resistance bands - there are SO many options.

Number one piece of advice - do something you enjoy and do it every day.

Good luck!

Polly D · 04-29-2007, 06:20 PM

Thanks y'all, especially for the advice about not using the tummy brace. I have to say thinking about having this surgery and being willing to make the adjustments shows me I can make the adjustments now. So I will start getting my hiney into the gym/pool where I work.