Pilates, Swimming, and Confidence: Kate’s Active Ostomate Story

03 August, 2025

Thriving with an Ostomy: Kate’s Journey Back to Fitness

When Kate had stoma surgery for colorectal cancer in September 2020, she was 74 years old, facing lockdown restrictions, and unsure of how active life would look in the future. Four years later, at nearly 79, she’s swimming, walking, and doing Pilates—living proof that having an ostomy doesn’t have to slow you down.

Before Surgery: An Active Lifestyle

Before her operation, Kate was no stranger to physical activity. She swam, walked up to 12 miles at a time, played tennis, and enjoyed Pilates and Tai Chi. Even during lockdown, she stayed active with Joe Wicks workouts.

Discovering the Active Ostomates Programme

After surgery, Kate was cautious. She’d read about the risks of parastomal hernias and avoided activities that might cause strain. But when she learned about the Active Ostomates Pilates classes—specially tailored for people with a stoma—she was intrigued.
“I’d enjoyed Pilates before,” she says, “but I didn’t want to do exercises lying on my stomach. The Active Ostomates sessions were exactly what I needed.”

Building Confidence in Movement

Kate began with chair yoga and then Pilates via Zoom, led by Heather—an instructor she praises for her friendly manner, deep knowledge, and careful exercise selection.
“I’m confident the exercises will help prevent a parastomal hernia,” Kate explains. “Heather even uses anatomical diagrams to show how the muscles work.”

Returning to Exercise

Her post-surgery journey started slowly: short walks that gradually lengthened, then swimming when pools reopened. She found that swimming in a ruched, patterned costume helped her feel more confident about her pouch.
She also took precautions when playing tennis by wearing a hernia belt.

The Benefits—Mind and Body

Being active again has boosted Kate’s confidence and wellbeing. “It means I’m fit and feel reasonably strong and healthy,” she says. “I can do pretty much anything I did before, and I forget about my stoma most of the time.”

Advice for Others with a Stoma

Kate encourages others to start gently and use trusted resources, like exercise booklets from Colostomy UK. Pelvic floor exercises and small movements, such as standing from a chair or stepping onto a low step, can build a foundation for more activity.
Her biggest tip? “You’re not defined by your stoma. Take it gradually, persevere, and you’ll surprise yourself.”

Looking Ahead

Kate’s goal now is simple but powerful: to stay fit and active for as long as possible. For her, the Active Ostomates programme has been more than exercise—it’s been a gateway back to living fully.

To join our Active Ostomates at home for September 2025, sign up here: Register now!