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Returning to normal life

Exercise

Great, you are starting to feel ready to do a little bit of gentle exercise. You’re doing really well. Exercise is good for everyone but taking up exercise again following surgery should be a gradual process. You should discuss with your Stoma Nurse before resuming exercise. Our tips will help you start slowly.

Start slowly

If you took part in physical activity before surgery there is absolutely no reason why you can’t get back to that again. You should be able to resume all the activities you loved before surgery, and can possibly even do new activities you weren’t able to do before. If you have never taken part in physical exercise before it is important to start off slowly. A gentle walk or swimming are both very easy on your abdominal muscles.

Regaining strength

Regaining strength is a long process that takes patience, take one day at a time. When you feel ready, add other types of exercise that you enjoy like running, cycling, hiking, swimming, Pilates, or yoga. If you attend fitness classes, it is a good idea to inform your instructor that you have recently had ostomy surgery. Ensure that you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Take your time, listen to your body and rest if you experience any pain.

Enjoy getting back to exercising!

Introducing: A Bigger Life

A safe and welcoming space for ostomates, friends, family and caregivers to talk about a wide range of topics related to living with a stoma.