I was cleared to resume light, non-strenuous cardio workouts starting at 6 weeks after surgery. I chose treadmill incline walking and stair-master workouts, keeping my heart rate lower than 130 beats per minute. Everyone’s tolerance is different so it is critical to consult with your surgical team for medical advice personally tailored for you. I introduced light stretching as well to assess my capacity and range of motion, as I prepared to start lifting weights again. Weight training began at eight weeks and I went light on everything, keeping in mind weakened muscular structure in my chest, heart rate and blood pressure so as not to do any damage to the healing process. I slowly worked my way back to where I was pre-surgery within a month. Go slow. Listen to your body. Be patient and don’t rush. No reason to unnecessarily compromise results.
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If your surgeon clears you to exercise or workout then yes, but it is important to follow specific guidelines and recommendations from your surgeon. Generally, light activities can be resumed a few days post-surgery, but strenuous exercises and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least four to six weeks.
Your healing process and the type of surgery performed will dictate your recovery and workout timeline. Pay close attention to your body: if you experience pain or discomfort, it's best to stop and consult your doctor. Once you receive clearance from your surgeon, gradually reintroduce workouts, starting with low-intensity activities before progressing to more intense exercises. Always prioritize proper recovery to ensure optimal results from your surgery.