By Lori Skurbe, MPH, CDE, Prime Surgicare Bariatric Dietitian
It is that time of year again. Summer is over, fall is here, and winter is just around the corner.
Soon, colder weather and shorter days will settle in, and for too many of us, that means their daily walks, bike rides, hikes and swims disappear.
For our weight loss surgery (WLS) patients, this can pose a problem since reduced/no physical activity invites health risks and can lead to poor weight loss and weight regain.
Many of our patients have heard me say, “Do not make the weather a reason to not exercise.”
With that said, don’t let Covid-19 or any other obstacle stop you from prioritizing a workout.
We already have a million excuses not to exercise: I am too tired, too busy, too large, etc. Just because it is cold and dark outside does not mean your exercise routine gets tucked away until the Spring.
What can you do to stay physically active all year round?
Get back to your gym
If you feel comfortable, go to your gym. Most gyms are now open at lower capacity and taking safety measures to keep equipment and the facilities clean. You can use the weights and cardio machines as well as take classes. You do need to feel comfortable exercising in a mask. Many group classes are held outside, and some gyms even have equipment outside.
Don’t forget, Prime Surgicare’s Bariatric Success Program offers an affordable small group exercise program just for you:
CentraState Fitness & Wellness Offers 16-Week Bariatric Warrior Group Fitness Classes
Home gym
During the Covid-19 shutdown, many people invested in home gym equipment to workout at home, as the gyms were closed. Having cardio equipment (treadmill, stationary bike, elliptical or rowing machine) can help you get in your cardio without leaving the house. You can also get weights or resistance bands for strengthening and toning.
Streaming exercise videos
Check out exercise videos from YouTube and even your cable company. Some may have exercise videos on demand. You can subscribe to different companies that offer many types of exercise, including yoga, Pilates, dance, high-intensity interval training, cardio and strength classes.
Smartphone apps
There are numerous apps to help you stay active, such as Nike Training Club, Aaptiv, and My Fitness Pal.
You can have exercise programs on your phone that you can follow at home, regardless of the weather.
Embrace the weather
There are many activities you can enjoy even in the cold weather. You can still walk outside as long as you are dressed appropriately, and there is no ice or snow, so you do not slip and fall. There are also winter activities like skating, skiing, sledding, snowboarding, snow tubing and snowshoeing that can be fun for the whole family.
The Bottom Line
You may need to change your exercise plans with the seasons. Keep an open mind, try new things and be flexible. Safety is always first, do not do anything you are not comfortable with and always consult with your doctor before starting a new exercise regimen.
If you have orthopedic issues, speak to your orthopedist or physical therapist for the best way, you can stay active without aggravating existing issues.
Share with us in the comments section below! What do you do to stay active during fall and winter?
Has the stress of COVID-19 stalled your weight loss or are you steadily regaining?
Call Prime Surgicare at (732) 982-2002 to schedule a one-on-one Telehealth visit and let’s build a strategy to get you losing again.
You may also wish to read my article, “Tips for Bariatric Warriors Coping with COVID-19,” for more tools and tips to maintain control of your weight.