CrossFit with a stoma | by Ayesha

Pre-surgery I always had a good relationship with the gym and enjoyed exercise. Once I got my stoma, I thought I wouldn’t be able to exercise properly again.

Core strength

It’s been just over 3 years with my stoma and I exercise regularly; between attending Pilates, running, walking and most recently I’ve joined a CrossFit gym. I had a strong core before getting my bag and I would really like to try and get a strong core again. I find CrossFit classes really push me out of my comfort zone and to my limits, and I’m hoping that if I build muscle it will help support my stomach.

Attending classes

At the beginning, I found the classes daunting as they’re high impact and at much as I would like to throw myself into the workout, I need to have a second thought for my bag. With the classes being full of variety I find myself working on my core, overall muscle strength and mobility. It’s been a real confidence boost seeing my strength improve and feeling like my core is getting stronger day by day.

Feeling supported

I feel very comfortable in the gym. From the beginning, I explained to the coaches about my stoma and that some exercises may restrict me but ensured that I would always work to my ability. They are really supportive and understanding, as are the gym members which allows me to feel welcomed into a supportive community even with my defect.

Tips

I’ll make sure to bring a bag to my classes and have my stoma belt, an extra bag with supplies and electrolytes just in case. I always make sure to eat well and stay well hydrated on my training days to avoid me feeling ill during the class. I would highly recommend just doing the exercises that you want and enjoy, there is always a risk but as long as you try and support your bag during intense workouts you will be ok.

Ayesha
@ayeshaduffy

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