What Exercise Should You Do In Preparation For Surgery

Article by: Daisy Moss

One of the best ways to prepare for surgery is to get enough exercise. Perhaps you are an avid exerciser, or the idea of doing a workout sends a chill down your spine. No matter how much exercise you do, there are best practices when it comes to pre-surgery fitness. One of the most important things to keep in mind is that sufficient fitness compliments the other pre-surgery recommendations. For example, any reputable surgeon will recommend that you stop smoking at least 6 weeks before surgery, whilst also maintaining a healthy diet.

In this blog, we will share exactly why exercise is so important prior to surgery, in addition to what types of exercise you should be doing to avoid over-straining yourself and ensure the safest surgery possible.

Why exercise is important before surgery

Some may question whether exercise is truly an important aspect of surgical preparation. The truth is that exercise can reduce the risks of complications during surgery, which is one of the most important aspects of surgery overall. There is no way to deter the risk of complications altogether, but minimizing all risks is key for a seamless procedure.

Studies have also shown that sufficient cardiovascular health before surgery can reduce the length of surgical recovery, which is ideal for patients looking to get back to their day-to-day activities. For patients who are considering plastic surgery, this can be extremely beneficial with the desire to have surgery as a better version of themselves sooner rather than later.

Managing your weight

Exercise is also imperative to surgery when considering the heightened risks associated with obesity. Obesity is linked to a number of problems such as high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, and also issues such as blood clots. You may be advised by your surgeon to lose weight prior to surgery in order to first of all qualify for the treatment, and secondly to ensure the best outcome possible. Exercise is key here, and can naturally support weight loss even with just 30 minutes of working a day.

Maintain a stable cardiovascular exercise

Now, for your exercise guide before surgery. Cardiovascular exercise aka cardio should be your best friend before surgery. Here are some of the variants you can consider doing individually or mixing up:

Rural walks

Did you know that walking 10,000 steps a day is enough to get your metabolic rate working enough to maintain your health and also encourage weight loss? If you want to romanticize your pre-surgery fitness journey, rural walks are the best way to get in enough steps all the while taking in the best of nature. Walking in nature is also proven to significantly reduce cortisol levels, and maintain a healthy state of mind. The thought of surgery can cause distress leading to increased blood pressure.

Walking outdoors and getting your 10,000 steps a day is the perfect all-rounder for improving your health.

Cycling

Cycling is also a great form of cardio for those looking to take up a new hobby, whilst maintaining a sufficient amount of exercise. Not only is cycling a great way to explore new locations, but it’s also much safer for your joint mobility which will be imperative for post-surgery recovery.

Aerobic classes

If you are someone who hates to exercise alone, aerobic classes are the perfect way to keep your lungs and heart working, while having a good time with friends. Check out your local gym and see what classes they have. Be sure to stick to a class that reflects your current abilities, as there will be many that are suited for your goals.

The key is to engage in exercise that does not spike cortisol levels too high, as this can heighten risks associated with surgery.

Strength exercise

Your muscles should also be worked out before surgery to ensure you are stable during the first few days following surgery. Being well-abled to move around without feeling too much fatigue is key, and having a good volume of muscle strength is the key to this.

Body Weighted workouts

Body-weighted workouts are so simple, yet can make such a huge difference. If the thought of going to a weights section in a gym frightens you, understand that a simple bodyweight workout in your living room will suffice. Consider doing squats, lunges, press-ups, and planks, and see the full scope of body-weighted workouts that can significantly improve your overall muscle strength.

Stretching

Finally, it is also key to practice good mobility before surgery.

This involves stretches, yoga sessions, and workouts designed to work your joints to reduce the risk of injury. During your first few days following surgery, your mobility may be limited depending on the surgery chosen. If you have a facelift in London for example, you may be mobile, but you will be advised to maintain bed rest for at least the first two days following surgery.

If you do not have a good level of flexibility before this, it can cause lots of strain and aches.

Yoga

Yoga is one of the best ways to improve flexibility and also target specific areas causing you pain.

It is a good idea to have any aches or pains dealt with before surgery, as they can add to the initial discomfort you will likely experience. Yoga is great for posture too, as poor posture can lead to back aches when you are bed-bound. Watch yoga videos through YouTube, or again see if your local gym has any classes running.