Progressive Resistance Training in Patients With Class III Obesity

Inclusion Criteria: * Men and women 18-65 years old * A BMI of ≥40 kg/m2 * Considering Weight Loss Surgery at BIDMC * Participating in multidisciplinary preoperative program: * been determined by a mental health professional (i.e., psychologist or social worker) to be well-informed, motivated, and not symptomatic for psychopathology that would put the person at risk for injury or failure with WLS * expressed strong desire for significant weight loss * experienced documented failure of long-term weight loss using nonsurgical methods * been informed of and accepts risks of surgery * Cleared by their primary care physician to be in stable health and capable of moderate level exercise * Willing to comply with expected attendance and participation at all intervention sessions and testing appointments * Has reliable transportation to the intervention location Exclusion Criteria: * Orthopedic limitations that would preclude exercise testing and training