Effects of pre-surgical aerobic dance-based exercise on lower extremity in people with morbid obesity awaiting bariatric surgery: Randomized controlled study

To investigate what are the effects of pre-surgical aerobic dance-based exercise programme (PSADBE) and physical activity counselling (PAC) programme on lower extremity functions after surgery in people with morbid obesity awaiting bariatric surgery (PMOABS). This study was a single-blind, randomized controlled study. Groups were divided into Group I (PSADBE and PAC) and Group II (PAC). Both groups received PAC, Group I completed the PSADBE programme accompanied by music for 60 min/2 days/8 weeks. Thirty-four PMOABS were included in the study. The 6-Minute Walking Test, as primary outcomes, and The Stair Climbing Up-Down Test for evaluating functional capacity, Biodex Isokinetic Test and Exercise System (R) for evaluating muscle strength were used. Besides, muscle endurance, physical activity (PA) level, fatigue and quality of life (QoL) were also assessed. All measurements were repeated three times; pre-treatment, post-treatment and the fifth-month post-surgery. After 8 weeks, significant changes were found in functional capacity, muscle strength and endurance, PA level, fatigue and QoL in both groups (p < .05). Comparing the groups, the changes in functional capacity, muscle strength and endurance, PA and fatigue scores after treatment and the fifth-month post-surgery were statistically superior in Group I (p < .05). Adding an 8-week PSADBE programme to PAC is an effective treatment option for improving postoperative functional capacity, muscle strength and endurance, PA level and fatigue in PMOABS.