3 Exercises Bariatric Patients Can Do at Home

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced nearly everyone across the country to shelter in place. This has left many people wondering how they are going to exercise. The reality is that not everyone can go to the local park for a run; however, for bariatric patients, there are a few exercises that can be performed at home. Of course, it is important for everyone, including bariatric patients, to check with their doctors to make sure they can perform these three exercises at home!

The Double Leg Lift 

To perform the double leg lift, start by laying on a soft mat. Bring your legs together so they are extended straight in front of you. Then, while keeping your lower back pressed against the mat, lift both of your legs off the ground slowly. If you have trouble performing the exercise this way, you can start by bending your knees and work your way up to straight leg raises. Try to do a handful of double leg lifts in repetition for a great workout.

Side Lunges

Another great exercise to perform at home is called the side lunge. Instead of regular lunges that have people stepping forward, side lunges force people to step laterally, working different sets of muscles, ligaments, and tendons. With this exercise, stand up with your arms at your sides. Then, step one leg to the side until it is shoulder-width apart. Finally, bend your knee and press into the lunge. Your body should make a triangle relative to the floor. You can repeat this exercise with the other leg.

Squats

Squats are a great exercise that will work the quads and calves. To perform a squat, stand up with your feet at hip-width. Your hips, knees, and toes should face forward. Next, bend your knees and extend your buttocks backward as though you are about to sit down. Try to squat down until your knees make a 90-degree angle. After, return to an upright position. You can repeat this exercise several times to complete your workout.

Recover with BariatricPal Protein ONE

In order for everyone to stay healthy, it is important to find ways to exercise even during these challenging times. These are a few of the workouts that people can perform even in the comfort of their own homes. Once you finish your workout, be sure to fuel your post-workout recovery with BariatricPal Protein ONE. This is the perfect, tasty post-workout shake for anyone who is recovering from bariatric surgery.