Research

Energy balance

Postoperative exercise following bariatric surgery is associated with a greater degree of weight loss (mean difference of 4.2% total BMI loss) at 12 months compared to no exercise.

If you have had bariatric surgery, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, like walking, at least three days a week. This habit is associated with losing about 4% more of your total body mass index compared to not exercising. Start with walking, as it is safe and effective.

ModerateSupportsMEDIUM confidence
Meta-analysis of three studies revealed a significant increase in 1-year postoperative weight loss (mean difference = 4.2% total body mass index (BMI) loss, 95% confidence interval (CI; 0.26–8.11)) for patients who exercise postoperatively.
Masha J. Livhits et al. · Obesity Surgery · 2010

Why this rating

Based on a meta-analysis of observational studies (mostly cohorts), not randomized controlled trials, limiting causal inference.

Source

Exercise Following Bariatric Surgery: Systematic Review

Masha J. Livhits et al. · Obesity Surgery · 2010

DOI 10.1007/s11695-010-0096-0

Meta-analysis · 3 studiesCited 195×
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DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10

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