I waited two weeks before going back to the gym. I began lifting light weights and quickly moved up. I did this after each surgery (3 step J Pouch). Everyone is different, but I didn't have any problems. I wear a compression belt over my lower abdomen to help prevent hernias and I'm lifting some serious weight again 3 months after takedown. I haven't had any hernia problems from weight lifting, but have had a few from sneezing.