The Role of Physical Activity Participation in Weight Loss Outcomes Following Weight Loss Surgery

Weight loss surgery (WLS) is an effective intervention for the reduction of body mass and the resolution of obesity-related comorbidities. Excess weight loss following WLS has been reported in the range of 40% to 78% depending on the surgery type and the follow-up time period. Initial weight loss outcomes and weight loss maintenance have been shown to depend on several factors, including the type of surgical procedure, preexisting comorbidities, and compliance with postoperative medical, nutritional, and behavioral recommendations. One factor that has received limited attention in the scientific literature is the role of physical activity in initial weight loss and maintenance following WLS. Physical activity participation of sufficient frequency, intensity, and duration during both the pre- and postoperative time periods has the potential to reduce surgical complications, enhance weight loss outcomes, and improve physical fitness and overall health following WLS. In addition, physical activity has the potential to improve the quality of postoperative weight loss by enhancing fat mass loss while preserving fat-free mass, thereby minimizing the impact of massive weight loss on metabolic rate. In light of these potential benefits, appropriate interventions should be employed to promote physical activity participation of appropriate frequency, intensity, and duration both before and after WLS.