Feasibility of implementing a meditative movement intervention with bariatric patients

Successful interventions are needed to help improve obesity rates in the United States. Roughly two-thirds of adults in the United States are overweight, and almost one-third are obese. In 1991, the National Institutes of Health released a consensus statement endorsing bariatric surgery as the only means for sustainable weight loss for severely obese patients. However, approximately one-third of bariatric patients will experience significant post surgical weight gain. Purpose of study: This study is designed to determine if meditative movement (MM) would be a feasible physical activity (PA) modality to initiate weight loss in bariatric surgery patients who have re-gained weight. Methods used: A feasibility study was recently completed in 39 bariatric patients at Scottsdale Bariatric Center (SBC) during regularly scheduled bariatric support groups at SBC. A short demonstration of MM was presented after which a short focus group was conducted to gauge interest level, acceptability and the potential demand for MM programs in this population. Attitudes and intentions surrounding MM were also collected. Findings: Approximately 75% of participants indicated they would consider practicing MM as part of their post surgical PA routine. Conclusions: MM may be a feasible PA modality in bariatric patients to improve bariatric surgery weight outcomes.