How to Enjoy and Sustain Physical Activity After Bariatric Surgery

Using the E.A.S.Y. Framework to Build Confidence and Momentum

When recovering from bariatric surgery, movement can become one of the most powerful tools in your wellness journey—but only if it feels achievable, supportive, and aligned with your life.

That’s why Dr. Thobaben created the E.A.S.Y. framework: a simple, thoughtful way to reintroduce physical activity in a way that honors your body and your goals.

E.A.S.Y. stands for Enjoyable, Accountable, Sustainable, and Say Yes—four interdependent pillars that help you build lasting, meaningful movement habits.

E is for Enjoyable

The best kind of physical activity is the kind you want to return to. But for many people, especially those recovering from surgery, the idea of “enjoyable” movement can feel far away or unrealistic. That’s okay. The first step is to get curious about what feels good—and explore movement on your terms.

Consider:

• Do you prefer being outdoors, indoors, or a bit of both?
• Would you enjoy moving with a friend or family member—or do you prefer solo time?
• Does a structured class feel supportive, or would you rather set your own pace?
• Are there types of movement you’ve enjoyed in the past—walking, dancing, swimming, lifting?

The goal is not perfection. It’s reconnecting with what brings you energy and joy.

A is for Accountable

Accountability isn’t about pressure—it’s about having support systems that help you stay connected to your goals, especially on hard days. Even when motivation dips (which it will), a bit of structure can keep you grounded.

Ways to build accountability:

• Set simple, realistic goals and track your progress
• Check in regularly with a trusted friend, therapist, or coach
• Keep your “why” visible—whether it’s mobility, confidence, or long-term health
• Celebrate small wins. A short walk counts. So does stretching or dancing in your kitchen.

Remember: all movement counts. Give yourself credit.

S is for Sustainable

Sustainable movement is safe, consistent, and kind to your body. It means you don’t pay for it the next day with pain, fatigue, or burnout.

Here’s how to keep it sustainable:

• Start slow when trying something new—steady progress beats fast starts
• Support your body with solid nutrition, hydration, and sleep
• Ask for help when needed—from a physical therapist, trainer, or coach

Sustainability means you can keep saying “yes” to movement over time—because it works with your life, not against it.

Y is for Say Yes

This is where it all comes together. Saying “yes” to intentional movement—on good days and not-so-good ones—builds confidence and helps momentum grow over time. It doesn’t need to be big or impressive. It just needs to happen.

Each time you say yes, you reinforce that your body is capable of healing, progress, and strength.

Ready to Make Movement E.A.S.Y.?

You don’t have to do it alone. ReStory offers virtual support to help you build a plan that honors your experience and helps you move forward with confidence.

Schedule a free consult today to create your personalized E.A.S.Y. framework and begin your journey to sustainable movement.