Exercise maximizes weight loss and helps maintain a healthy body.  After surgery you need not only good nutrition but also regular activity.  Plan to build exercise into your daily schedule. Here are some ways you can add in exercise:

·         Park the car at the back of the lot instead of close to the door and walk when you are doing errands.

·         Take the stairs instead of the elevator.

·         Stand at your desk.

·         Walk on your lunch break or in between classes.

·         Make the weekends (or whenever you have time off) a time for longer and more fun, physical activities.

Exercise burns fat and improves your mood by releasing endorphins (pleasure-inducing chemicals) into your body.  Exercise may also cause you to feel less hungry.  When you are able, add weight lifting exercises to your routine.  This will help build muscle mass, which allows you to burn more calories.  Discuss this with your surgeon or primary care provider.

A quick search on the internet can help you find lots of local resources. Here is a very small sampling of places we found free or inexpensive fitness sources, just to give you an idea of the different possibilities: 

Lawrence Public Library offers a monthly yoga class; the library also offers physical fitness kits

Wichita Parks & Recreation offers fitness classes

Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library offers fitness kits

Fit Lot located in Topeka at Willow Park

Shawnee County Parks & Recreation offers fitness classes