What do you do for exercise? Is it fun or a drag? During the pre-operative consults the bariatric team couldn’t stress enough how important exercise is for the healing process of surgery and maintence of you body weight. Lucky for us we had been exercising regularly before bariatric surgery was even an option. Everyday since the surgery has been an adventure and learning process. It’s amazing how this surgery could change a life or even two.

Not only has it changed Kevin’s life by his 50 lb. weight loss since December 2015 but has changed mine. I am even more convinced exercise is key! As a therapist clients come for help with depression, anxiety, and addiction issues (just to name a few). I ask this important question during the assessment phase: “What do you do for exercise and what diet do you follow if any?” Most people look at me like I have a horn growing out of my head when they hear the word exercise. Some will say, “I joined a gym but don’t have time to go, or the real answer is I don’t have time to exercise. Exercise has so many benefits and it can be fun, and you do have time.

Kevin’s recovery time from bariatric surgery, a hernia repair, and liver biopsy has been remarkable. He bounced back in just two to three days. Here we are at week 2 and he has already been out doing yard work (which he really shouldn’t be doing), but he says he feels great! He even looks great. To be honest I’m super proud of him. He’s come a long way. However, his speedy recovery time is because he has been on a consistent exercise program for the past 5 years. The last year has been a bit challenging and he slowed down a lot but he still kept at it.

For the past 5 years we trained for several half marathons, 10k’s, and 5k’s. Last year we ran four half marathons. We always had a goal to work toward and that kept us motivated. We were always on a training program, and it was fun! Having a training buddy makes it even more fun. Sometimes we have the best conversations during our exercise time. I have heard many people say, “Wow, I can’t even walk one mile.” To be honest neither could we when we first started! Heck, we got winded just walking to the mailbox and back. I tell people if you want to do it, you can. Anyone can!

Here we are two and a half weeks post surgery and we ran a 5K yesterday. We had the best run in a long time and Kevin felt and looked fantastic. It was exhilarating. The energy and support of the crowd and the people you meet on the course are all incredible. It makes you want to keep moving! And that’s what it’s all about, to just keep moving. When you move chemicals are released from your brain down to your toes and you feel great! The depression lifts and anxiety decreases. Exercise is all a mindset and disciple. So, get out there move and have fun in the process!