Open AccessEvaluation of an exercise programme for post‐bariatric surgery patients: views of participants
Author(s) -
Gill D. L.,
Fasczewski K. S.,
Reifsteck E. J.,
Rothberger S. M.,
Davis P. G.
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
obesity science and practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.654
H-Index - 14
ISSN - 2055-2238
DOI - 10.1002/osp4.165
Subject(s) - medicine , focus group , accountability , physical therapy , family medicine , gerontology , marketing , political science , law , business
Summary Objective Exercise programmes typically are evaluated with fitness assessments and psychological survey measures but seldom include participants' insights. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the benefits, facilitators and barriers of a 12‐week exercise programme for post‐bariatric surgery patients from the participants' perspective. Method Over a 2‐year period, 20 patients recently having undergone bariatric surgery completed a 12‐week programme that included participation in structured exercise and in focus groups designed to supplement standard evaluation data and provide insight into participants' views. Results Participants were highly adherent to the programme, and focus group results reflected a clear positive evaluations. Benefits included helpful information, developing commitment, physical fitness and social support; notably, weight was seldom mentioned. Participants cited structure, accountability and group support as facilitators of exercise. Participants cited few barriers, although very few had set plans for continuing exercise after programme completion. Conclusion Participants saw many benefits to the exercise programme, and those benefits reflected lifestyle changes rather than a focus on weight. Programme structure, accountability and the support of the group were facilitators to exercise. Participants cited few barriers. However, the lack of plans for continued exercise suggested the need for a transition phase to help participants continue an active lifestyle after the 12‐week structured programme.