This topic is about a person who has both a urostomy and an ileostomy and has undergone numerous surgeries. Despite these challenges, she decided to start pole fitness at the age of 41. Initially, she had no experience in dance or gymnastics and very little strength, but she has been working gradually to build her core strength, confidence, and sense of self. She had previously been advised to avoid activity to prevent hernias, but this inactivity actually contributed to a hernia. Now, by engaging her core, she feels much better. She has chosen not to tell her family, who can be judgmental, because she wants to live fully and prove that having ostomies does not limit her ambitions.

Here are some helpful insights and advice from her experience:

1. A positive mental attitude is invaluable. Focus on what helps you move forward rather than on limitations.

2. Many people with ostomies find that the risk of hernia is more from everyday activities like coughing or sneezing than from sensible lifting or exercise. Strengthening the core is seen as protective, not dangerous.

3. Build your strength slowly and safely. Consider getting guidance from trainers who are experienced in modifying exercises, and from abdominal or pelvic-floor therapists, especially if you have a prolapsed stoma or are older.

4. Long-term ostomates, even those up to 50 years post-surgery, have exercised freely without issues when not told to restrict themselves.

5. Age is not a barrier. People in their 70s and 80s have returned to activities like tap dancing after ostomy surgery.

6. Community encouragement is important. Don’t let fear, judgment, or stomas stop you. Choose activities that make you happy and adapt as needed.