Resuming Strenuous Exercise After LASIK: Smart Tips for Patients

Undergoing LASIK surgery is a life-changing experience—one that frees you from the daily hassle of glasses or contact lenses and opens the door to a more active, spontaneous lifestyle. At Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun, we’re proud to bring this freedom to patients across East Tennessee, including at our convenient Hardin Valley location.

But while your vision might be clearer than ever, it’s crucial to approach your post-LASIK recovery with care, especially when it comes to getting back into your exercise routine. In this guide, we’ll share important tips for returning to physical activity safely and how patients in Hardin Valley, TN, can protect their results for the long term.

Why Caution Matters After LASIK

Though LASIK is a quick, outpatient procedure with little discomfort, your eyes undergo a complex healing process in the days and weeks that follow. Strenuous activity too soon can jeopardize your results.

Key Risks of Exercising Too Early:

Increased blood pressure and heart rate can stress the healing corneal flap
Sweat can introduce bacteria or irritants to the eye
Rubbing your eyes during workouts can cause flap displacement
Outdoor exposure to wind, dust, and UV light may lead to dryness or inflammation

Tips for Protecting Your Eyes During Recovery

Whether you’re hitting the gym in or hiking the Smokies, follow these smart tips to keep your eyes safe while staying active:

1. Delay High-Impact Workouts

Avoid contact sports, weightlifting strain, and vigorous cardio for at least two weeks, or until cleared by your eye doctor. These activities increase the risk of trauma or flap movement.

2. Be Sweat-Smart

Wear a clean, moisture-wicking headband to prevent sweat from dripping into your eyes. Avoid wiping your eyes directly—use a soft towel to dab instead.

3. Guard Against Environmental Exposure

If you’re exercising outdoors, protect your eyes from sunlight, wind, dust, and pollen. Use UV-blocking wraparound sunglasses and skip windy days until fully healed.

4. Stay Hydrated

Strenuous activity can lead to dry eyes, a common LASIK side effect. Drink plenty of water and use preservative-free artificial tears as recommended.

When Can You Return to Your Workout?

Each patient heals at their own pace, but here’s a general guideline:

1–2 Days After LASIK: Light walking, gentle stretching, or stationary cycling (with sweat precautions)
~2 Weeks Post-Op: Jogging, strength training, yoga (avoid eye pressure or strain)
1 Month or Longer: Contact sports, intense cardio, martial arts, or heavy lifting
4–6 Weeks: Water activities like swimming, paddleboarding, or lake sports (with protective eyewear)

Be sure to get personalized clearance from your surgeon at your Hardin Valley follow-up appointment.

Special Note: Water Activities and LASIK

While East Tennessee summers are perfect for lakes and rivers, water sports can pose a high risk after LASIK. Pools, lakes, and oceans contain bacteria, chemicals, and debris that may irritate or infect your healing eyes—even with goggles.

We recommend avoiding all water-related activities for a minimum of 4 weeks and always wearing snug, protective eyewear once you return to the water.

Clear Vision, Active Living — It Starts Now

LASIK offers the gift of effortless vision—but protecting that gift means giving your eyes the time and care they need to heal. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a fitness enthusiast, or just enjoy staying active, resuming exercise safely after LASIK ensures your results are long-lasting.

If you’ve had LASIK recently—or are planning your procedure—our team at Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun is here to guide you every step of the way. We’ll help you understand the safest timeline to resume your fitness routine based on your individual recovery.

EyeCare Optical – Hardin Valley
10841 Hardin Valley Rd.
Knoxville, TN 37932

Request an appointment HERE.

Protect your eyes. Honor your recovery. Achieve your best vision. Let us help you return to the active lifestyle you love—with confidence and clarity.