This topic is about a 61-year-old person with an ileostomy who is looking for safe and effective exercises to help with overall fat loss and specifically trimming abdominal fat. Here are some helpful tips and advice:
1. General approach
- To reduce fat, aim for a daily calorie deficit. Remember, you can't target fat loss in just one area.
- Instead of focusing on the scale, notice how your clothes fit, as gaining muscle might hide fat loss.
2. Recommended cardiovascular activities
- Enjoy hiking, walking, and gentle jogging, but take it slow and steady.
- Try pool workouts or relaxed breast-stroke swimming. It's normal to feel some mild abdominal discomfort afterward.
- Consider cycling, whether on a stationary bike or a road bike. An adult tricycle, like those from Viking, can be great for building strength and confidence.
- Join group fitness classes such as Zumba, Barre, or low-impact aerobics. Start with shorter sessions and go at your own pace.
3. Strength and core training
- Weight training is suitable; start with light dumbbells (around 5-7 pounds) and increase gradually.
- Core exercises like planks and limited crunches or sit-ups are okay, but stop if you feel any pulling around your stoma.
- Use a hernia support belt during activities that might involve straining or heavy lifting.
- It might be helpful to consult a personal trainer or physical therapist who understands ostomies to create a safe exercise plan.
4. Managing the pouch and skin while exercising
- Be aware that heavy sweating, especially in hot and humid conditions, can loosen the wafer adhesive if your appliance is more than four days old. Plan changes accordingly.
- Wearing a snug, moisture-wicking support garment can help keep your pouch stable during exercise.
5. Online resources and motivation
- Check out stomaatje.com for a detailed guide on belly and abdominal exercises for people with stomas.
- Visit BlakeBeckford.co.uk for inspirational videos, workouts, and gear tips from a fitness model with an ostomy.
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