In order to lose the maximum amount of weight and to maintain that weight loss from your Lap-Band Surgery, it is extremely important to incorporate exercise into your daily routine. Remember that exercise doesn’t just include going to the gym. There are many ways to get a great workout that can be enjoyable at the same time.

Exercise is a very important tool during your weight loss journey. It helps you burn calories, reduce fat while building muscle, increase energy, help lower blood pressure, improve mood and self-esteem, enhance the immune system and strengthens bones, as well as relieve stress.

Examples of physical activity that can help you stay fit:

● Start your activity with a warm-up. This will build a better work out and help prevent injuries to your muscles.
● Use stairs instead of taking elevators or escalators.
● Park your car farther from your intended destination.
● Go on a nature tour at a local park or forest preserve that are located in the Chicagoland area
● Go sledding, ice skating or skiing.
● Water aerobics and swimming provide great exercise with low impact on the body.
● Housework or outdoor activities such as gardening and yard work are great opportunities to be active. Don’t forget mowing the lawn or shoveling.
● Find a hobby. Turn off the television or computer.
● Sports are fun and help you stay fit.
● Exercise with friends or family. Make a date to go for a daily walk, play sports or other activities.
● Yoga and Pilates have many positive benefits including building muscles and reducing stress.
● Be creative in finding ways to be active.

How to be successful with Physical Activity and Exercise

1. Begin slowly

● It is important to begin your activity regimen at a slow pace. Start with light activity and work your way up.
● Begin your exercise with walking or water aerobics. Low impact activity is still beneficial. When your body is ready, increase the amount of time spent exercising or advance to a higher impact activity.

2. Set realistic goals

● Start an exercise journal. Set small, weekly goals that are realistic and attainable. Document the type of activity and time spent on a daily basis. At the end of the week, check to see if you have met your desired goals.
● Set a new goal each week. As time goes on, you will see how many successes you have accomplished.
● If you do not meet a desired goal, determine why you didn’t and create a
new goal.

3. Reward yourself

● If you have met the goals that you have set, reward yourself. Try to pick a reward that is not food related.

4. Stay healthy

● Always check with your doctor before starting a vigorous exercise program.
● Be aware of how your body feels. If something doesn’t feel right, slow down or stop.
● Choose well-respected facilities. When working with personal trainers or other staff, check to make sure they have the proper credentials.
● Always use the proper exercise equipment and gear to help prevent injury.

5. Keep yourself hydrated

● It is important to stay hydrated before, during and after exercise. You will
need to hydrate yourself to replenish the fluids you have lost through sweat.
● Stay hydrated, don’t wait until you are thirsty. By the time you are thirsty, you’re most likely already dehydrated.
● Avoid carbonated beverages and fruit drinks. These take longer to absorb and can cause cramping, nausea and/or diarrhea.
● Cool or chilled fluids may work best. Cooler liquids help to lower and normalize the body’s elevated core temperature.

Following these guidelines are a good way to ensure you will keep the weight off from your Lap-Band Surgery. With Spring around the corner, meeting these exercise goals shouldn’t be difficult. Pick up the local paper to see what events are taking place in the Chicagoland area.

If you are interested in Lap-Band surgery, contact DayOne Health in Chicago to register for a free seminar. Here you will hear from Lap-Band patients, surgeons and other members of the DayOne staff.