Personalised fitness information and advice about physical activity before and after surgery is available from Michelle Harrison.

Since graduating from University in 1998 with a Bsc (Hons) in Sports Studies, Michelle has worked in a variety of health & fitness related roles. She has experienced employment in the private & public sector and has worked with clients on a one to one basis and in group based settings.

Michelle has accumulated a wealth of knowledge working with people with various medical conditions, ranging from obesity and arthritis, to heart conditions and mental health issues. Michelle is able to communicate effectively with all client groups and thrives on helping people achieve their exercise goals. She is extremely dedicated to raising awareness of the benefits of exercise, and is passionate in helping people improve their health and longevity.

Michelle is a member of REPS (Register of Exercise Professionals) and holds a Level 3 Advanced Instructor Status.

During my career, I have worked with bariatric clients both pre and post surgery. I know that each individual has a differing opinion of exercise; from those who have enjoyed being active in the past, to those who dislike exercise and really struggle to find the motivation to do any! In my one to one consultations, I aim to look at each individuals exercise and medical background, their lifestyle and also aim to identify any barriers surrounding exercise. The next step is to then discuss the most suitable types of activities to try, and finally to set goals.

Monthly reviews allow us to examine any problems or difficulties that have arisen, and also give you the reassurance that you are being supported and guided the whole way through your new lifestyle. I’m here to encourage and motivate you through these changes and am only a phone call away!

Before your weight loss surgery

Exercise does play a big part of your weight loss journey and you are encouraged to increase your physical activity even before you have surgery – we are not advising you to go to the expense of a gym membership at this stage. Increasing your daily steps by walking more will make a huge difference.

Exercise does become easier after you have lost some weight and from experience, those patients who worked with their surgery by increasing their physical activity have seen better results than those who did nothing. 

You are advised to increase your activity levels before your operation for two main reasons:

Firstly, it will make the transition to exercising after surgery more manageable and secondly it can make the surgery easier by decreasing your levels of body fat/weight.

Before your operation you will be advised to make simple changes to your lifestyle including:-

• Parking your car further away from the place you are visiting
• Getting off the bus one or two stops before you need to
• Taking the stairs instead of the lift
• Taking a 10 minute walk at lunchtime
• Following a walking programme, monitoring your progressions with a pedometer

After your weight loss surgery

After your operation you will be advised to be up and walking as much as possible.This is very important and will help your circulation, reduce the risks of blood clots, promote wound healing and bowel function.

Try and take several short walks per day increasing in distance and intensity as you feel able.

The best types of activities to choose include low impact exercises such as swimming, cycling and walking. However, Rob will assess your physical capabilities and personalise these activities for you.

Your weight may plateau at some point and it is likely you will need to increase your activity levels at this stage. As highlighted before, Rob will be able to guide you accordingly dependent on your physical capabilities at the time.