PRK surgery gym: When and how to get back to your workouts

If you're considering or recovering from PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), you might be wondering when you can safely return to the gym. Exercise is a key part of staying healthy, but after laser eye surgery, timing and caution are everything.

In this article, we’ll guide you through:

• When it’s safe to go back to the gym after PRK
• Which exercises are okay early on
• What to avoid during the healing phase

If you haven’t had your procedure yet, visit our PRK surgery Brisbane page or read our related guide on is laser eye surgery painful. And when you’re ready, take the next step with our suitability self-test.

Can I go to the gym after PRK?

Not straight away. PRK is a surface-based laser procedure, which means your eye needs time to heal. Most doctors recommend avoiding the gym for at least 5 to 7 days.

This is because:

• Your cornea is regenerating
• You’re using eye drops that could increase infection risk
• Sweating can irritate the eyes.

Even light activity can increase pressure or expose your healing eye to dust and bacteria.

When to resume gym workouts after PRK surgery

Here’s a general timeline for returning to exercise after PRK:

• Week 1: Rest. Focus on healing. Avoid the gym entirely
• Week 2: Gentle workouts like walking or using a stationary bike may be okay
• Weeks 3-4: Light weights, bodyweight exercises, and non-contact training
• After 1 month: Most people can return to their usual gym routine, including lifting and cardio, if cleared by their surgeon.

Every recovery is different, so always follow the advice of your surgeon.

Things to be aware of when returning to the gym after PRK and LASIK

While PRK and LASIK are both laser vision correction procedures, they heal differently. PRK has a longer recovery time because it treats the surface of the cornea. That means your eyes may feel sensitive to light, dry, or gritty longer than with LASIK.

If you wear protective eyewear, avoid:

• Overheating and sweating excessively in the first few weeks
• Rubbing your eyes with a towel or your hands
• High-impact movement that jars your body (e.g. jumping, sprinting).

Stay away from shared gym equipment that could increase your risk of picking up an infection.

Safe gym activities during week one and two after PRK surgery

Once your surgeon gives the okay, here are some low-risk options:

• Indoor walking on a treadmill
• Gentle cycling
• Stretching or yoga (no hot yoga)
• Resistance bands instead of weights.

Stay hydrated and wear sunglasses when heading to or from the gym, especially in bright sunlight.

When is it safe to go swimming after PRK surgery?

Swimming pools, oceans, and spas should be avoided for at least 2 to 4 weeks. These environments carry a high risk of infection.

Even with goggles, water can seep in and disrupt healing. Wait until your surgeon confirms it’s safe. Once you return to swimming, invest in snug-fitting goggles and continue using lubricating eye drops if needed.

PRK surgery gym tips: Ensuring a smooth recovery

• Avoid sweating into your eyes. Use a sweatband or clean towel
• Don’t skip your eye drops—they help prevent infection and dryness
• If you wear a headband or hat, make sure it’s loose around the eyes
• Disinfect gym equipment before and after use
• Let your trainer know about your recovery.

Taking these steps helps keep your eyes healthy while you return to movement.

How long after PRK can I lift weights?

Lifting light weights may be okay after 2 weeks, but wait 4 weeks or more for heavy lifting. Straining too soon can increase pressure in your eyes.

Start with machines or bodyweight exercises and avoid compound lifts like squats or deadlifts until you’re cleared.

If your job involves heavy lifting, ask your surgeon how soon you can safely return to work.

Can I sweat after PRK?

Yes—but cautiously. While sweat itself isn’t dangerous, it can carry bacteria into your eyes and cause stinging.

In the first 2 weeks, try to avoid workouts that cause heavy sweating. If you do sweat, pat around your eyes gently with a clean towel. Don’t rub your eyes under any circumstances.

Final thoughts: Keep moving safely after PRK

Getting back to the gym after PRK takes patience, but it’s worth it. A few weeks of rest now can protect your eyes and help you get better results in the long run.

When in doubt, ask your surgeon. Everyone heals differently, and they can guide you based on your progress.

Wondering if PRK might be right for you?

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