After ostomy surgery, it’s natural to wonder how life will change with your new ostomy. One of your first steps will be learning to care for your stoma and discovering which ostomy products work best for your unique needs. But as you heal and regain your strength, you may start thinking about how to exercise with an ostomy and get back to some of your favorite physical activities, like hiking, walking, lifting weights, or swimming.
Can You Exercise with an Ostomy?
In many cases, yes. Once you’ve healed from your surgery and your healthcare provider says it’s safe, you may be able to return to your favorite activities with a colostomy, urostomy, or ileostomy.
Based on your healthcare provider’s guidance, you may need to start slowly and make a few adjustments along the way. That’s okay. The goal is to build your stamina and strength over time after a major surgery. There’s no need to rush your recovery.
When Can You Exercise After Ostomy Surgery?
Everyone heals differently, so there isn’t a specific timeline that works for everyone after colostomy, urostomy, or ileostomy surgery.
Walking is one of the first activities that many people return to after healing from their ostomy surgery. Depending on what your surgeon or healthcare provider advises, you may be able to start with a few short walks around your home or neighborhood, and then gradually increase your distance or time as you get stronger.
The key is to remember that you’ve been through a major operation. Give yourself time. Starting small does not mean you’re falling behind.
What Types of Exercise Can You Do with an Ostomy?
Once you’ve healed, an ostomy doesn’t have to keep you from staying active. The best activity for you is the one you enjoy and feel comfortable building back into your routine. Here are a few common exercises and tips for approaching physical activity with an ostomy.
Can you walk, run, or go hiking with an ostomy?
If you’re eager to return to your favorite outdoor activities like walking in the park, running, or hiking, the good news is that these types of exercise are generally safe once your doctor has determined you’ve healed enough.
However, you should probably take it slow, especially at first. Start with a distance that feels manageable. You might walk around your home, down the street, or at a nearby park first.
If you’re trying to get back into running, you might try gentle intervals by walking for a few minutes, then jogging or running for half a minute to a minute at a time. You can gradually increase your running time as you rebuild your stamina.
Before a longer walk, run, or hike, it may help to:
- Empty your pouch before heading out
- Check that your pouch and skin barrier feel secure
- Bring a small backup supply kit
- Carry water to stay hydrated
- Wear clothing that does not rub against your stoma or feel too uncomfortable with your pouching system
- Plan for restrooms for rest stops when possible
Some people may also prefer wearing a special ostomy wrap or ostomy belt to keep the pouch secure and close to the body.
180 Medical’s trained Ostomy Specialists can help you discover which ostomy pouches and accessories best suit your body, needs, and exercise routine.
Can you lift weights with an ostomy?
Yes, many people can lift weights with an ostomy once they have healed and their doctor says it is okay to begin. Just keep in mind that your abdominal muscles need plenty of time to heal before overworking them.
It’s okay if you can’t lift as heavy as you did before your illness, especially at first. Listen to your body and avoid straining. Over time, you may be able to regain your strength.
When you are ready to return to strength training:
- Start with lighter weights than you used before surgery
- Move slowly and focus on good form
- Breathe throughout each lift rather than holding your breath
- Increase the weight a little at a time
- Empty your pouch before you begin
- Stop if you feel pain, pulling, or unusual pressure near your stoma
Holding your breath and straining can put more pressure on the abdomen, so steady breathing matters, especially as the weight gets heavier, so you don’t risk complications like a parastomal hernia.
Can you do abdominal exercises like sit-ups or crunches with a stoma?
Having an ostomy bag doesn’t mean you can never work out your abs again. In fact, rebuilding your core strength can help with posture, balance, and a general sense of strength after healing from your surgery. You’ll just want to very gradually reintroduce core exercises over time, with your surgeon or ostomy nurse’s guidance.
In other words, after ostomy surgery, it’s not a good idea to jump straight into difficult sit-ups, planks, or heavy lifting. You might want to begin with gentle movements, such as seated knee lifts or other light ab exercises recommended by a physical therapist or your healthcare team.
As you heal and regain stamina, you may be able to work toward more challenging exercises.
Keep in mind that you should never feel sharp pain or a new bulge around your stoma. These are signs to stop and check in with your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Can I practice yoga or Pilates with an ostomy?
Many people return to yoga or Pilates after ostomy surgery. Talk with your doctor about when it’s time to get back to your favorite exercise classes. Make sure your incision sites and abdominal muscles have healed enough since both yoga and Pilates can involve a lot of core movement.
When you return, begin with gentler poses and make adjustments when something puts uncomfortable pressure on your abdomen or stoma.
Don’t be afraid to move at your own pace. Most yoga teachers will understand whether or not you tell them you’ve had surgery. However, you don’t have to tell anyone about your ostomy if you don’t want to.
You may prefer wearing a wrap or another close-fitting layer to help keep your ostomy pouch secure while you bend and stretch. If a movement hurts or feels wrong, skip it. You don’t need to force your body into every pose to get something good from the class.
If you want extra security, products like ESENTA Hydrocolloid ostomy barrier strips may help.
Can I swim with an ostomy?
Yes, swimming is a low-impact exercise that’s gentle on the body and great for rebuilding your strength and stamina. You should be able to swim with an ostomy once your doctor gives you the okay.
Here are a few quick tips for feeling confident and secure in the pool or ocean again.
- Wear concealing swimwear: If you’re concerned about visibility, brands like Ostomysecrets offer wraps, concealing swimwear, and accessories designed for ostomates.
- Protect your pouch filter: For colostomies or ileostomies, be sure to cover your pouch filter to prevent water from entering.
- Try a water-resistant, discreet pouch: Products like Esteem Body™ Soft Convex Pouches are water-resistant and available in different types to suit your needs.
Can you ride a bike with an ostomy?
Many people return to cycling or using their stationary exercise bike after they’ve healed.
A stationary bike may be a comfortable place to start because you can set your own pace and stop whenever you need to.
For longer rides outdoors, bring water and a small backup supply kit. Hydration is especially important for people with an ileostomy, since they may lost more fluid through their output.
Tips for Exercise With an Ostomy
No matter what type of physical activity you choose, here are some helpful tips for your health as you adjust to your new ostomy:
- Stay well-hydrated
- Avoid triggering foods that may cause stomach upset or gas
- Avoid diuretics like caffeine or other irritants
- Eat a healthy doctor-approved diet
- Start out slow and pace yourself
- Find helpful tips and tricks from ostomates in the me+ community
- You may want to stay away from violent or very physical contact sports that could damage your stoma or rupture your pouch
- Find flattering, discreet clothing and accessories for your ostomy with Ostomysecrets
- Only seek medical advice from your healthcare provider or a physical therapist familiar with ostomies
Exercise and Parastomal Hernias
A parastomal hernia happens when part of the abdomen pushes outward through a weakened area around the stoma. It often looks or feels like a bulge near the stoma.
Because ostomy surgery affects the abdominal wall, it is understandable to worry that exercise or lifting weights could cause a hernia.
Gentle movement and gradual core strengthening can be part of a healthy recovery after stoma surgery. You may be able to reduce some of the strain on your abdomen by:
- Following your lifting restrictions while you heal
- Building strength slowly
- Avoiding sudden jumps in weight or intensity
- Breathing during a lift instead of holding your breath
- Using good form
- Asking for help with objects that are too heavy
- Managing ongoing coughing or constipation with your doctor
Even with careful habits, parastomal hernias can still happen. Talk with your doctor or ostomy nurse if you notice a new bulge, pain, pressure, or a sudden change in how your pouch fits.<
When Should You Stop Exercising?
Stop and contact your healthcare provider if you notice:
- New or worsening abdominal pain or swelling
- A new bulge around the stoma
- Ongoing bleeding
- A major change in stoma color or output
- Dizziness, nausea, or unusual weakness
A small amount of bleeding may sometimes happen if the stoma is rubbed because the stoma tissue has many small blood vessels. Bleeding that is heavy, does not stop, or comes with other symptoms should be checked.
Get urgent medical help for severe pain, vomiting, a dark or very pale stoma, no output, swelling, or other serious symptoms.
Common Questions About Exercise With an Ostomy
Can you lift weights with a colostomy bag?
Many people can return to lifting weights with a colostomy bag after they have healed and their surgeon or healthcare provider has given the okay.
Start with lighter weights, build slowly, and breathe throughout each lift. Stop if you notice pain, pressure, or a new bulge around the stoma.
Can you do sit-ups with a stoma?
You may eventually be able to do sit-ups or other abdominal exercises, but this type of exercise may not be the best place to begin strengthening your core after ostomy surgery.
Start with gentler core movements and build up with help from your doctor or physical therapist.
Can running make an ostomy bag leak?
Running does not automatically cause leaks. However, sweat, movement, an overfilled pouch, or a poor seal can sometimes create problems with pouch leakage.
Empty your pouch beforehand, check the seal, and consider wearing a wrap or fitted layer if it helps you feel more secure.
Should I wear an ostomy belt while exercising?
Some people feel more secure with an ostomy belt, wrap, or support garment. Others do not need one.
Talk to your doctor or ostomy nurse about what may be right for you to help support or stabilize your pouch.
Can exercise cause a parastomal hernia?
A parastomal hernia can develop for several reasons, so it is rarely possible to point to one exercise as the cause.
Sudden heavy strain may place more pressure on the abdomen. Starting gradually, using good form, breathing during a lift, and rebuilding core strength may help you return to exercise more comfortably.
How soon after ostomy surgery can I work out?
That depends on your surgery and individual recovery. Follow the guidance your surgical team gives you.
Should I empty my ostomy bag before exercising?
Yes. Emptying or changing your pouch can make it lighter and help reduce movement while you exercise.
What should I keep in my gym bag?
Consider packing a backup of your ostomy supplies, disposal bags, any ostomy accessories you normally use, and a change of clothing in case of unexpected leaks.
You may also want to bring water or another hydration option.
Get Support and Find the Right Ostomy Products
Are you looking for a reliable ostomy supply company? Get in touch with 180 Medical’s team of trained, friendly Ostomy Specialists today. We’ll gladly help you find the right ostomy products that suit your needs.
Disclaimer: Content provided on 180medical.com is for general educational/informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Product and sample availability may vary based on your insurance plan, prescription, and other requirements. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your condition, treatment, or medical supply needs.
