Post surgery thoughts on when to get a personal trainer

reisu

I'll be honest. I am not the most motivated person, and use all sorts of excuses (arthritic knees, oh and one TRULY busted up knee due to a ruptured patellar tendon).

When I go to "motivate on my own", it becomes nap time. And whilst I do get a lot of walking done at work and at home, I'm looking for something a bit more involved.

I've just hit a milestone for me (the first time under 300 in years), and I really want to start *actively* making this change a part of me, not solely relying on my diet. At 290, is it still too large to consider a trainer? Would a trainer at one of those '8000skinnypeople Fitness clubs be even able to accommdate an older, larger and somewhat gimped person looking for training.

I'm not even sure at what point I should even be considering training, or home movies (where at least I am in the privacy of my home, panting away frantically).

Note: I am almost 3 months from my surgiversary, and have dropped post just shy of 50lbs. We received food guidelines, but I dont recall seeing training guidelines.

Any thoughts?

Richie2shoes

A good personal trainer should be able to "handle" a person at any age or fitness level. The trick is finding the right one. My advice would be to shop around and find a trainer that fits. Perhaps your surgeon has recommendations?

garber6th

Definitely consult with your surgeon, but at 3 months out, you should be in the clear to train. I was told after 4 weeks I could do more than walking, but no heavy lifting until 6 weeks. Now, I do 60 minutes of cardio 5-6 times a week, and strength training 3-4 times a week. I haven't hired a trainer, but I do know two people who train who have helped me out along the way and I am doing very well!

DJRonnieLINY

I hit the gym at the 1 month mark doing cardio and basic arm and leg weights, just to break the cobwebs off. At the 4 month mark a hired a PT to create a workout plan specific to my goals and needs. She works with me once per week and I work the plan after than. The key is in interviewing trainers to find the one best for YOU.

I spoke with one of the gym managers I trust and told them my goals, limitations and surgical history. The reccomended a trainer who gave me a free initial visit so we could feel each other out. Matching up what I wanted to accomplish with the strengths of a trainer was key. I see the P/T's in my gym working with people of all ages, shapes and sizes. A good P/T can develop a plan specific for you, if they cannot - choose another.

hurricanelena

I'll echo everyone else's comments and say that a good trainer can "handle" anyone. I've worked with several trainers over the years (only changing when I've changed gyms or cities), and all have them were while I was near my heaviest at 340-370lbs. A good trainer will ask you about your goals and physical limitations. I am about 7 weeks out, and I started back with my trainer last week when I was cleared for all activity by the surgeon. We spent about 20 min (since we already had a history it went quicker) going over my goals, my body changes, and nutrition.

My trainer is often a bit like my therapist. I discuss my diet/exercise frustrations, what's going on in my life, etc. All in combination with a good muscle burn. :-)