I am a new collaborator to the blog, and I am happy to share my knowledge with you. My six years of university studies in the fields of physical activity and kinesiology allowed me to learn many things. Get ready to move!

Let’s be honest, a stoma changes your life! Some complications can occur after surgery: Weight gain due to medication and lack of exercise, inflammation cause by medication, decrease in muscle strength in the lower abdomen, back pain, etc. Here are some steps to get back to an active lifestyle.

Step 1: Respect the Recovery Period Recommended by Your Doctor

Hurry! Hurry! Hurry! This is what people often tell me when they are recovering from an injury or a surgery. It’s very important to allow time for your body to recover. Being active will not quicken your recovery. I suggest you follow the recommendations of your doctor who can advise you properly depending on your type of surgery.

Step 2: Regularly Practice Everyday Life’s Exercises

Life itself is daily training. In the world of physical activity, there is something called functional training. They aim to recreate movements found in everyday life. Multiple exercises that can help you get back into shape can be found in your own house. You can use a chair, a staircase, a kitchen counter, and a few boxes to create your own gym! Sitting on a chair and getting up is similar to a squat. This movement helps build strength in your legs and stabilizing muscles, which include back muscles and abs.

Step 3: Gradually Start Training or Practising a Sport

Once you have your doctor’s approval, you can gradually start training or practising a sport. I did say gradually! For example, if you’d like to run, start with brisk walking. After a few weeks, do one or two sets of 30 seconds of light running. This will give your body time to adapt and will help prevent injuries.

Finally, here are two rules that will help you adopt a physically active lifestyle:
1.    Give yourself enough time to learn how to be physically active again;
2.    Know and respect your limits in terms of physical activity.

 Have a good workout!

Your coach, Alexandre Hamann

Français