Any tips about training a client who had gastric bypass surgery 5 months ago & eats 600-800 calories/day?
She had gastric bypass surgery in January 2013 and lost about 70 lbs. She currently eats only 600-800 calories a day, primarily protein. She is active on her own and always has been, generally working out 3-4 times a week (lately closer to 2) in a variety of ways: swimming and circuit training are her favorites. She still has another 50-70 lbs to lose and wants to make sure she’s doing what she can to make her body strong and build muscle. She wants to train with me only 1 day a week initially. Any tips or recommendations for me? My main concern is the caloric intake since I have never trained anyone who had this surgery before and I know her stomach is smaller and can only hold so much. The calorie amount is just really, really low for someone who is going to be working out a few days/week in my opinion, although it sounds as if it has been working for her thus far. Thanks!
On top of what has already been said, you noted she is eating mostly protein. This should automatically send up an intensity red flag. No carbs mean difficulty with intensity that uses the glycolytic pathway. Once you get medical approval starting slow and paying attention to RPE will be key. Basic strength training to maintain or possibly increase muscle mass to keep the client’s metabolism from halting further progress is VERY important.