Deciding how to stay active after gastric sleeve surgery can be surprisingly complicated. We’ve been going back and forth for months now about whether to stick with home workouts or finally commit to joining a gym.
Each has its pros and cons, and like most things after surgery, it really depends on your lifestyle, mental focus, and how you stay motivated. For us, working out at home has definitely helped build consistency — but we’ve hit that point where the excitement is fading and the limitations are starting to show.
So, we thought we’d lay everything out clearly. Seeing it written down always helps us decide what makes the most sense long-term.
Working Out at Home
When we first started exercising post-surgery, home workouts were a godsend. James began walking and doing light resistance work just a few weeks after surgery, slowly building back strength. Kirsten focused on gentle walks as part of her recovery plan, especially with her Crohn’s-related fatigue (you can read more about that in our Aftercare page).
Home workouts were an easy, low-pressure way to build confidence and routine — but now, a year and a half in, the cracks are starting to show.
Pros
Convenience – There’s no commute, no schedule, and no pressure. We can work out when it suits us, which has been a huge advantage on busy workdays.
Cost-effective – Once you’ve bought the basics, you save a lot over time. No monthly memberships or travel costs.
Privacy – This was a big one for us early on. Especially post-surgery, when energy levels were low and confidence wasn’t fully there yet, being able to move at home without feeling self-conscious was invaluable.
Flexibility – Quick workouts can be squeezed in between meetings or chores. There’s no waiting for equipment or sticking to set opening hours.
Cons
Limited Equipment – We’ve only got dumbbells, kettlebells, and an EZ bar. They’re fine for maintenance, but for real progression — especially for James now focusing on strength and future bodybuilding goals — it’s too limiting.
No Social Environment – Sometimes, it’s nice to train around others who share similar goals. We miss the sense of community, and even just casual feedback can make a big difference to form and motivation.
Distractions Everywhere – The PS5, phone, or even just house chores make it way too easy to skip or cut sessions short.
Space – The home setup takes up valuable room. We’ve joked about turning it into a pantry or a walk-in wardrobe more than once.
Going to the Gym
The gym has been calling to us again. There’s just something motivating about being in a space built purely for training. And for James — who’s recently committed to competing in a novice bodybuilding competition in 2026 — it’s becoming more of a necessity than an option.
Pros
Better Equipment Variety – Machines, squat racks, cable stations, cardio gear… a proper gym allows a more structured and balanced workout plan.
Expert Guidance – Personal trainers and staff can provide tips, form checks, and progression advice that you simply don’t get at home.
Social Energy – Being surrounded by others working towards their own goals can be incredibly motivating, especially on the low-energy days.
Extra Facilities – Our local gym includes a pool and fitness classes, which would be great for Kirsten’s low-impact recovery when she’s fully healed from Crohn’s treatment.
Cons
Cost – Membership for both of us comes to £68 a month, or £816 per year. Not huge, but it’s still a commitment.
Privacy Concerns – We’ve had a bad experience at the gym in the past (back in 2019), which made us cautious about returning. Confidence has grown a lot since surgery, but walking into that environment again can still feel intimidating.
Time Constraints – James already spends up to three hours a day commuting, which makes fitting in gym time tricky. We’ll need a solid plan to make it work.
Why the Mindset Matters Most
Ultimately, the decision isn’t really about where you train — it’s about how consistent you are and why you’re doing it.
We’ve seen this first-hand with people who had their gastric sleeve surgery the same month we did. Some have only lost 20–30 pounds in 18 months, not because the surgery “failed,” but because they never adjusted their mindset or daily habits.
The surgery is a tool, not a shortcut. Whether it’s nutrition, supplements, or exercise, you have to stay mentally committed. For us, that commitment means pushing through the comfort zone and doing what will support our long-term goals — even when it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable.
That’s why we’re leaning towards the gym.
Yes, it’s an expense. Yes, it’ll take extra time. But paying that membership creates accountability, and the structure will help us both push further — James with his bodybuilding goals, and Kirsten with rebuilding strength once her Crohn’s treatment allows it.
The Plan
Our current at-home routine wraps up on 12th August, and the plan is to join the local council gym that weekend. The year-long membership includes swimming, fitness classes, and full access to all gym facilities.
Committing to that annual membership means we’ll have no excuses — and it also turns this next chapter into an investment in our health, not just a hobby.
We’ll keep updating the site as we go, sharing how it feels to transition back to a public gym environment after surgery, and whether it really delivers the boost we’re hoping for.
Let’s see how it goes!
Disclaimer:This post reflects our personal experience with exercise and fitness after gastric sleeve surgery. It is not medical or fitness advice. Always speak with your GP or bariatric team before beginning any new workout routine, especially during recovery or after long-term weight loss.