Feel stronger, safer, and more in control of your body – one simple movement at a time. Follow a step‑by‑step plan to move confidently again while reducing the risk of developing or worsening a parastomal hernia.
Breathing and Movements For People With a Stoma
Build strength and move with confidence
Learn how to move safely, protect your stoma, build strength and exercise with confidence – one simple movement at a time.
What this guide includes:
✅ A four-stage movement plan – breathing, core connection, strength and stability
✅ Advice for getting out of bed safely after stoma surgery
✅ Video tutorials to follow at home
Suitable for people of all ages and abilities.
Don’t just take our word for it
For Shelley and Nina, Breathing and Movements is where their confidence started. By taking the programme, they felt confident and strong enough to take on ATHX Games – 2.5-hour continuous fitness competition.
“Breathing and Movements has made me feel more in control. It’s made my core a lot stronger. I’m moving around better every day, lifting shopping, heavy items at work – it’s helped through my whole life.” Shelley
“Breathing and Movements has helped give me confidence to come back to the gym. It has helped me regain core strength and the stability to be able to push my core.” Nina
A glimpse at the programme
Created by qualified Body Control Pilates instructor Andy Hansen, alongside our SecuriCare Stoma Care Nurse team.
Fundamentals
Phase 1- Nasal and diaphragm breathing techniques
- Standing, sitting, lying and kneeling positions
- Three beginner-friendly movements to activate your pelvic floor and build core strength
Preparation
Phase 2- Preparation phase uses fundamentals for gentle movements to improve strength and mobility
- You’ll need two small weights, like 1kg or 2 filled bottles/tins for this phase
Moving on
Phase 3- Build your strength further by progressing the movements learnt in the phase 2
- You will need a soft ball for this phase, such as beach ball or pilates ball
Progression
Phase 4- This final phase is the toughest and some movements may not be suitable for everyone
- You may need to start with fewer repetitions
Meet the author
Andy Hansen
Body Control Pilates Instructor and Stoma Rehabilitation Advocate. Andy has specialist knowledge in stoma rehabilitation, parastomal hernia prevention and management, core strength development, breathing techniques, functional movement, Pilates, and safe exercise for people living with a stoma.