Which Exercises Should Be Done After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Which exercises should be done after gastric sleeve surgery? Gastric sleeve surgery is one of the most effective methods in the fight against obesity. However, this surgery alone does not create miracles; without being supported by a healthy diet and regular exercise, it is not possible to achieve the desired results. Exercising after bariatric surgery not only speeds up the weight loss process but also helps reshape the body.

So, which exercises should be done after gastric sleeve surgery? In this blog, we’ll cover the safest and most effective exercises after surgery, important precautions to consider, and the types of sports that can be done in the long term.

The Importance of Exercise After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

The benefits of exercising after surgery are not limited to weight loss. With regular exercise:

• Metabolism speeds up and fat burning increases.
• Muscle mass is preserved, ensuring healthy weight loss.
• Bone density strengthens, reducing the risk of osteoporosis in later years.
• Psychological recovery is supported, reducing stress and anxiety.
• The body becomes more toned, preventing sagging and deformation.

Especially after gastric sleeve surgery, exercise plays a key role in helping patients adapt to their new lifestyle.

Exercise in the Early Period After Surgery

During the first 4 weeks after surgery, it is necessary to avoid strenuous exercises. The safest sport during this period is walking. Thanks to light-paced walks, blood circulation accelerates, and potential post-surgical complications are minimized.

👉 First 2 weeks: Short walks inside the house are recommended.

👉 Week 3: Light-paced walks outdoors can be started.

👉 Week 4: Daily 30-minute walks can be done.

The goal in this process is to make movement a habit without straining the body.

The Best Sports: Walking and Swimming

1. Walking

Walking is the most essential exercise after gastric sleeve surgery. It is both easy to apply and low-risk. Regular walking:

• Increases fat burning.
• Strengthens cardiovascular health.
• Reduces stress.
• Builds a daily activity habit.

2. Swimming

One of the most beneficial exercises that can be started a few months after surgery is swimming. With swimming:

• All muscles work simultaneously.
• Calories are burned without putting strain on the joints.
• The body shapes evenly.
• Both cardio and strength training are achieved at the same time.

Even in winter, with the increase in indoor swimming pools, swimming has become an ideal sport for patients who have undergone gastric sleeve surgery.

Exercise Recommendations After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Post-surgery exercises can gradually diversify:

• Walking → Can be safely done from the first weeks.
• Running → Light-paced running can be started after the 3rd month.
• Weight training → Should start with light weights from the 3rd month; more intense training can begin after the 6th month.
• Cycling → Can be preferred as a joint-friendly sport from the 2nd–3rd month.
• Yoga and Pilates → Recommended for both flexibility and muscle endurance.

Long-Term Exercises

The process of exercising after gastric sleeve surgery requires patience and consistency. After the first 4 weeks, risks decrease, and patients can slowly return to their normal routines.

• After the 3rd month: Brisk walking, light running, cycling, and light-weight fitness can be started.
• After the 6th month: Normal training, weightlifting, cardio, and swimming can be done regularly.
• After 1 year: Exercise becomes an inseparable part of life. At this stage, doing exercise at least 4 times a week is essential for maintaining a healthy weight.

In addition to muscle and bone-strengthening exercises, stretching movements should also be performed. This minimizes skin sagging after weight loss.

Things to Consider When Exercising After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

• Always consult your doctor before starting exercise.
• Avoid high-intensity sports in the first months.
• Start weightlifting with light weights and gradually increase.
• Do warm-up exercises before, and stretching exercises after sports.
• Drink plenty of water during exercise to stay hydrated.
• Do not push your limits; listen to your body.

The Relationship Between Exercise and Weight Loss After Surgery

Exercise is not just about burning calories. It is also very important for preserving muscle mass, speeding up metabolism, and supporting psychological recovery. Compared to those who don’t exercise, patients who exercise:

• Lose weight faster.
• Experience less muscle loss.
• Face fewer sagging problems.
• Adapt more easily to the post-surgery process.

Conclusion: Lasting Success With Exercise After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Gastric sleeve surgery is a powerful step in the fight against obesity; however, without exercise and healthy lifestyle habits, it is difficult to achieve permanent results.

• Walking in the early months,
• Swimming, cycling, and light fitness in the mid-term,
• Regular exercise and strength training in the long run,

enhance the effects of surgery and ensure long-term weight control.

Remember: Exercise is the strongest supporter of gastric sleeve surgery. With regular physical activity, you can protect your health and achieve a fit appearance.