Exercise and physical fitness for weight loss surgery patients is an integral part of the after care program for our patients. Citizens Bariatric Center refers our weight loss surgery patients to the Citizens HealthPlex where they are evaluated and plugged into the Fit and Fabulous program, guided by degreed and certified Exercise Physiologists through its three phases. This process begins while you are still in the hospital recovering from your weight loss surgery. Either Stacie Krutilek or Cathy Verduzco will visit you prior to your discharge and provide you with information regarding the program as well as instructions and helpful suggestions for entering the program. Visit the Citizens HealthPlex website to view additional features of the HealthPlex as well as more information on its programs.
Fit and Fabulous is a program specifically created for those who have had, or may be considering, bariatric surgery. Individuals who are considering any type of bariatric surgery are encouraged to participate in an exercise program before undergoing any surgery. This helps to build healthy habits and have a positive support system in place from the very beginning.
After surgery, most of the weight loss occurs in the first year. During this time, it is essential to develop healthy eating patterns and participate in a regular exercise program. Studies have shown that weight loss surgery patients who are actively engaged in an exercise program lose more weight.
This program is designed to assist you in an exercise program, helping you to progress through three phases, and eventually to independent exercise.
Phase 1: An aquatic class designed for deconditioned adults and weight loss surgery patients who are just beginning an exercise program or those just out of surgery. Patients who have orthopedic concerns would also benefit from Phase 1. Phase 1 is the first step in developing an exercise program, and building base conditioning. Once patients have this base level of fitness, they move on to Phase 2.
Phase 2: A land-based class, focusing on beginning weight training and cardiovascular exercises. Proper form and conditioning are taught in this Phase. As a patient’s strength, cardiovascular endurance, and confidence improve, the individual will move on to Phase 3.
Phase 3: An orientation to the fitness equipment on the fitness floor by the Fitness Floor Staff. By this point in their exercise routine, weight loss surgery patients are ready to progress to a more advanced program. You are set-up on a strength and cardiovascular training program to meet your specific goals.
Classes: Classes are offered three days per week on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. A certified instructor teaches each class.
| Monday at 5:30 p.m. | Circuit Training, in the HealthPlex Clinical Area |
| Monday at 6:30 p.m. | Aquatic class, lap pool |
| Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. | Walking class, on upstairs track |
| Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. | Aquatic class, lap pool |
| Friday at 5:30 p.m. | Circuit training, Group Studio A |
| Friday at 6:30 p.m. | Aquatic class, lap pool |
Fabulous Support
Group meetings are held the first Thursday of each month. These group meetings are open to anyone who has had bariatric surgery. Education and peer group support are offered in a private, less structured setting.
For questions about the Fit and Fabulous program at the Citizens HealthPlex contact Cathy Verduzco at 361.582.1107.