This topic is about safely getting back into weight training and exercise after having a colostomy, with a focus on preventing hernias and choosing the right support belts. If you've recently had a colostomy and are eager to return to your fitness routine, here are some helpful tips and insights:

1. Support and Hernia Belts:
- The Nu-Hope hernia belt is popular among many for providing a sense of security during activities like lifting, running, and sports. It can also help extend the wear time of skin barriers.
- While the belt may not increase the amount you can lift, it can help prevent future hernias. Some users have experienced minor stomal prolapse during exercise, but Nu-Hope offers an optional stopper strap to address this.
- Comfizz support garments are thin, comfortable, and nearly invisible, offering confidence for activities like golf.
- The Hollister belt and Ostomysecrets spandex belt provide light support for activities such as basketball, jogging, and upper-body weights.
- Tight generic shapewear might not offer enough protection, as one user developed a parastomal hernia and now uses a Nu-Hope belt full-time.
- It's generally recommended to start wearing a proper hernia or support belt early, especially during activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure.

2. Exercise Progression and Choice:
- Start slowly and increase your load gradually. Pay attention to any discomfort and stop if you feel pain.
- Some have successfully resumed upper-body weights, moderate sit-ups, and leg lifts, while others avoid direct abdominal work after experiencing a hernia.
- For low-impact cardio, consider using the “Easy Bounce Cellerciser” rebounder, which is portable and offers whole-body conditioning.
- High-impact activities like using a punching bag, playing full-court basketball, or heavy running might be too strenuous in the early months but could become manageable after 6-7 months with proper support.
- Activities like golf, light basketball, half-court play, and controlled weight lifting have been maintained without hernia issues when using a support belt.

3. Professional Guidance:
- It's a good idea to consult with a sports or physical-medicine physician or a knowledgeable stoma nurse to get personalized advice and a tailored strengthening plan.

4. Hernia Facts:
- Parastomal hernias often occur around the stoma opening where the abdominal muscles are weakened.
- Once a hernia is present, it can limit abdominal exercises and may not fully resolve without surgery, making prevention very important.