Description:

This session will focus on evidence-based strategies to assist bariatric patients in implementing an active lifestyle over the life continuum. The effects of functional, nutritional, and behavioral factors on physical activity will be reviewed. The unique considerations for individuals with obesity and for those who have experienced weight loss after bariatric surgery will be discussed.

There will be a special emphasis on specific nutritional and psychological concerns of individuals interested in intense physical activity, endurance exercise, or competitive athletics.

Learning Objectives:

1. Attendees will be able to provide guidelines to patients for establishing an individualized physical activity plan which will lay the foundation for more enhanced physical training.
2. Attendees will be able to describe the behavioral and psychological differences between endurance exercise and compulsive exercise behaviors of a bariatric patient.
3. Participants will be able to describe the special nutritional needs of bariatric surgery patients who exercise beyond the minimum goals for health."