Gaining Optimism After Weight Loss Surgery (GOALS) II

Gaining Optimism After Weight Loss Surgery (GOALS) II: Randomized Controlled Trial of a Positive Psychology-based Intervention to Increase Physical Activity After Bariatric Surgery

This randomized controlled trial examines the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary impact of an adapted positive psychology-motivational interviewing (PP-MI) intervention for physical activity among patients who have recently undergone bariatric surgery compared to an enhanced usual care control.

This study will test a positive psychology-motivational interviewing (PP-MI) intervention for physical activity promotion in patients who have had bariatric surgery within the past 6-12 months compared to an enhanced usual care control. The investigators will enroll and randomize 58 participants. Study participation includes attending four study visits (two at baseline, one at 10 weeks, and one at 24 weeks). Participants will be randomized either to a 10-week physical activity intervention that includes once-weekly phone calls, a written manual, and a Fitbit activity tracker, or provision of the Fitbit alone. Primary outcomes include the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention. Secondary outcomes include changes in physical activity and other psychological, behavioral, and physiological outcomes at 10 and 24 weeks compared to the control.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adult (age 18+)
• History of bariatric surgery (gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy) at one of two academic medical centers within the past 6-12 months
• Interest in increasing physical activity
• Low physical activity, defined as <200 minutes/week self-reported moderate- to-vigorous physical activity
• Access to telephone for study sessions
• Able to read and speak English

Exclusion Criteria:

• Cognitive deficits precluding participation or informed consent
• Illness likely to lead to death in the next 6 months
• Inability to be physically active (e.g., severe arthritis)
• Participation in another program targeting physical activity besides their standard offerings at the surgery center.
• Severe psychiatric condition limiting ability to participate (e.g., psychosis, active substance use disorder)