Physical Activity in Bariatric Patients

The aim of the current study was to explore the effect of a 6-months motivational physical activity intervention (MPAI) on different psychosocial variables (e.g. motivation, health-related quality of life, self-esteem, etc.) and on the physical activity levels of bariatric surgery patients. Comparing with a control group (CG), we tested the differences obtained on these variables between before surgery and just after the MPAI (7-months after surgery). Additionally, we explored the (possible) prolonged effects of the intervention by doing re-tests 13, 25 and 37- months after surgery.

Participants were recruited from a Spanish hospital between November 2011 and May 2013. Through their pre-operative visit to the clinical psychologist, patients were asked if they wanted to participate in a follow-up intervention to measure their physical activity (PA) levels and various psychological variables related to exercise. Participants who showed interest after this interview were subsequently contacted by phone to arrange a baseline visit to the sport research center, during which they were informed about the aims and procedure of the study, provided written consent, and completed questionnaires to assess different variables related to psychosocial aspects. Moreover, participants were asked to wear an accelerometer at their right hip for one week, warning them to take it off just to sleep, shower, or to perform activities that could damage the device (e.g. swimming). When they returned, they were assigned to a motivational PA intervention (MPAI) or control (CG) group.

At post-intervention measurements, patients again completed all questionnaires and wore an accelerometer during another week.

Regarding the MPAI, it was carried out during 6 consecutive months and took place in a public fitness center. The sessions were directed by exercise and sport sciences professionals (Degree in sport sciences, Master's degree in PA and health), who were trained in the application of motivational strategies based on self-determination theory (SDT). According with the postulates of SDT, these motivational strategies would help to enhance the satisfaction of basic psychological needs that are necessary for optimal development and functioning, such as competence, autonomy, relatedness and novelty. So, in the context of exercise, intrinsic forms of motivation will appear in people if basic psychological needs are satisfied, which will lead to positive consequences related to enjoyment, adherence, and positive attitudes towards PA.

Eligibility Criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:

* To have a BMI greater than 40kg/m2 or greater than 35kg/m2 with an associated comorbidity.
* To have experienced previous failed obesity treatments with restrictive-caloric diets and medications.
* To have followed endocrinology and nutritional monitoring, accomplishing the therapeutic instructions properly.
* To have no medical, psychological or social contraindications.
* To have the consent of the clinical psychiatrist and the surgeon and ensure their willingness to attend the programme.

Exclusion Criteria:

* To participate in another physical activity or weight loss program
* Not ensuring full availability to attend the program