Many bariatric patients know the significant physical benefits of weight loss surgery, but incorporating exercise into a new routine can be daunting.
In a recent BariNation Podcast episode, our friend and Community Expert Lora Grabow, LMSW, shared with us the powerful and positive impacts walking every day in 2023 had on her mental, physical, and spiritual health. Her biggest key to success along her walking journey? Keep the promises you make to yourself. In this blog post, we'll explore how daily walks can be a game-changer for your physical and emotional well-being after bariatric surgery.
The Power of Daily Steps
Walking is a simple, accessible exercise that delivers a wealth of benefits. It strengthens your heart and improves circulation, reducing the risk of heart disease, a major concern for many bariatric patients. It also helps regulate blood sugar, manage weight, and improve bone density. But the benefits go beyond the physical. Walking is one of the most accessible types of movement because it can be done anywhere and does not require any additional equipment.
Emotional Wellness Through Movement
Walking is a powerful tool for managing stress and anxiety, common emotions after surgery. The rhythmic motion has a calming effect, and spending time outdoors can boost your mood and improve sleep quality. Walking can also be a form of self-care, a time to reconnect with yourself and celebrate your progress.
Keeping Your Promise: Making Walking a Habit
The key takeaway from Lora was to prioritize the promises you make to yourself (click HERE to watch this episode). Walking doesn't require expensive equipment or lengthy gym sessions. Start small, even with just 10 minutes a day, and gradually increase the duration and intensity as you build stamina.
Here are some tips to make daily walks a habit:
- Just start: Walking for one extra minute that you would have today is a *literal* step in the right direction. Don't put qualifiers on the time or distance you walk, just walk!
- Find a walking buddy: Having a friend or family member join you can boost motivation and accountability. In May, we are hosting a Movement Challenge in the BariNation Membership Community! If you would like a boost of inspiration and a sprinkle of motivation, join the Community today!
- Explore your surroundings: Take advantage of parks, trails, or scenic routes to keep walks interesting.
- Track your progress: Use a fitness tracker or app to monitor your steps and celebrate milestones.
- Listen to your body: Don't push yourself too hard, especially in the beginning. Gradually increase intensity as you feel comfortable.
Here are my stats from a recent outdoor walk I completed using my Peloton app. The time or intensity is not what matters. What counts is that I moved by body in a way that was accessible to me that day! Come move with me in the BariNation Membership Community and on the Peloton app, find me @actively_april
Walking is an investment in your health and well-being. By taking small steps each day, you'll be amazed at its positive impact on your body and mind. Lace-up your shoes, step outside, and start reaping the benefits of daily walks!
Bonus Tip: Consider joining a bariatric community for kind accountability. This supportive environment can provide additional motivation and a sense of community. The BariNation Membership Community can offer you many kinds of accountability and support. One of our experts and fellow patients, Monique Coleman, hosts a Movement Accountability Meetup every other Friday, and every day, you can connect with fellow patients who are making movement a priority in their lives. Learn more about our safe, private, inclusive, and 100% virtual community HERE. We hope to “see” you in The Nation soon!
