Osomy reversed and ready to get back in the gym.

I just had my ileostomy reversed after about 16 months so I'm all self contained again and it's pretty awesome. I'm anxious to get back to working out and martial arts a.s.a.p. but I know I can't get at it too aggressively too quickly so I was hoping someone here might have some tips. Anyone who had one reversed, what specific exercises did you do? How fast did you progress as far as weights and intensity? Stuff like that. Any information you guys might have would be terrific...thanks a lot.

I limited myself to walking and hiking for about the first six months post surgery. It's probably best to ask your surgeon for his/her advice on when you can return to martial arts.

Sue

Fortunately, I only had my temporary for about 2-1/2 months. My surgery was mid-July and my surgeon advised me not to lift any weights until September 1. I cheated a little bit and started on my legs about a week ahead of time. Once I got out of the hospital, I started in on walking. I went from 15 minutes three times a day to about an hour three times a day during that month and a half. Once I got back in the gym in late August, I stuck with the treadmill and I've gotten up to half an hour a day at 15 degrees and about 5.5 mph. It churns up a great sweat. I also do the same weight workout I did before I had my ileostomy back in April. I'd suggest taking it slow to start and gradually build back in as you feel comfortable. As for the martial arts, I think I'd definitely ask my surgeon how long to wait for that. Wouldn't want to get punched in the stomach and have something really bad happen after all.

Congrats on the reversal. If you feel half as good as I felt getting mine, you're on top of the world.

Haha awesome ok that makes sense. It's cool I knew there was a reason and that's a fine one. And BayAreaGuy, thanks...that's exactly the stuff I was looking for. I feel great it's fantastic and now, after a little over three weeks, I've stopped reaching down to check my bag for the most part lol. I just can't wait to get back in the gym, on the mat, and back to work it's getting closer and closer. :)