If you have undergone a tummy tuck, the last thing you'll want is for the fat to return to your abdominal area. To keep your tummy trim, engage in a mixture of aerobic and strength-training exercises for a minimum of 150 minutes per week. Before you begin an exercise program following surgery, consult your doctor. If you feel any pain during exercise, discontinue and let your doctor know.
Time Frame
During a tummy tuck, an incision is made in the lower abdomen to give the plastic surgeon the ability to manipulate the skin and muscle in the area. A tummy tuck does not result in weight loss, but instead it contours the belly to give it a flatter appearance. Since you will have an incision, you likely will be advised by your doctor to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise after surgery. At your follow-up visit about six week later, your doctor will let you know if it is safe to begin exercising.
Aerobic Exercise
Light aerobic exercise is usually allowed immediately following tummy tuck surgery, as long as you did not suffer any complications. Benefits of aerobic exercise after surgery include reduced chance of blood clots, less swelling and pain relief. Low-impact forms of exercise, such as walking and cycling, are ideal to keep you from rupturing your incision.
Beginner Moves
Start with beginner moves when you exercise your abs. Squats and single leg stands are appropriate for beginners, and these target the muscles in your abs. For a squat, stand with your legs hip-width apart. Move your hips backward and bend your knees to get down into a squat. Contract your abdominal muscles during the exercise. Straighten your legs and rotate your hips forward to complete the move. For a single leg stand, stand up with your feet 2 inches apart. Contract your abdominal muscles as you lift your left leg off the floor. Hold your leg about 3 to 6 inches off the ground for 15 seconds. Release and switch legs.
Advanced Exercises
As you advance, you can add more difficult core-training exercises to your routine. A reverse crunch is an example of an intermediate exercise for tummy-tuck patients. To begin, lie flat on your back with your knees at a 90-degree angle in the air above your hips. Contract your abdominal muscles and hips to lift your glutes into the air and press your knees toward your head. Control your body as you slowly lower back down onto the mat.
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