Starting an Exercise Program After a Hysterectomy.

That is a pretty vague recommendation from your doc...
I have not had a hysterectomy but have had multiple abdominal surgeries for resection/tumor removal, ostomy reversal, and finally, hernia repair when the first incision herniated. So, I will just share where I started and maybe it can help you?
My surgeon was much more specific, he let me start with seated resistance training (google that, lots of videos out there, also look on Sparkpeople), and walking. From there, it was dependent on how I felt, and "listen to your body, if it hurts, stop". So gradual progression. Walking, walking videos, swimming in time, going from seated to standing resistance training, my initial jogging involved an abdominal binder (especially after the hernia surgery). He did make me feel better by saying that most people feel relatively protective of the hernia repair I had for six months to a year. It took a long time before I did core-specific work-crunches, etc. But other activity strengthened the abs so they would be ready for it. It has taken a year since the hernia repair (midline incision, large mesh) for me to really feel comfortable doing ab exercise.

So, your mileage may vary...but that is where I started...each time, lol!

I would think so. With spinning you can adjust your resistance and just slow down if you need to. Same with Zumba really, just take a little pause. I haven't done Zumba (just watched videos of it a few times), so can't really say...if there is any twisting involved you may want to watch that. It doesn't seem to have anything high impact in it so I don't really see where it would be a problem. Just work on increasing your range of motion gradually and you should be fine.

I started with cardio at 6 weeks, but I didn't lift heavier than 10 lbs until 12 weeks. I was fine and went back to what I was doing before my surgery (heavy lifting and ab work). It started off laproscopically, but ended up being open abdomen. Best thing I could have ever done health wise.

I was on Weight Watchers at that point in time and I followed it to the letter and lost 7 pounds during those 6 weeks.

Walking is a great start! I had the same surgery 2 years ago, and walking was about all I was up for when I was released to exercise. I do yoga, and some stuff from the Sworkit app or Fitnessblender, but walking has always given me good results, and it's easy, lol. Listen to your body and don't try to do too much too soon, it will take awhile to get back to normal.

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melissahatten73 wrote: »

Thanks for the tips. The only thing she was specific on was no swimming at all.. but I gathered she meant everything else in moderation? I am not one to exercise at all anyway. Never was a runner... heck no work outs. I was hoping to join Zumba and spinning? Do these seem realistic for a beginner?

I used to do Zumba religiously and I can honestly tell you that it involves a LOT of twisting of the middle section but you can adjust if needed. Zumba instructors will tell you that what's most important is to keep moving so if they do something that hurts you, just walk in place.

I just had a hysterectomy two weeks ago and am chomping at the bit to exercise again. I know I have a ways to go though!

My hysterectomy was 16mo ago. Unfortunately I had some complications that forced me into nearly 8 weeks strict bed rest! Even though I was awful before, 8 weeks nearly made me go mad!!! My specialists only allowed me to go to the gym/exercise classes if I worked with a rehab trainer! This was worth every penny! I seriously couldn't do anything but walk short distances, but now I can power squat 210lbs! The last thing I wanted to do was hurt myself and end up back in hospital! My advice,
Don't over do it,
Take it slow,
Listen to your body
And for the love of a good recovery focus on your DIET!!! Do some research and decide what macro ratio works best for you! While you're walking slowly on a treadmill get that tablet/iPad/whatever working on your diet plan!
Wishing you every success Melissa!