Have you ever wondered what it takes to truly embrace movement as a lifestyle, not just an obligation?
In this episode of BariNation, April speaks with longtime bariatric friend, Casey Kilduff, whose journey as a runner is nothing short of inspiring. Casey opens up about the determination it took to run after bariatric surgery, how she had to adapt her training and nutrition to fit her new body, and why movement—no matter what form it takes—is deeply personal. They talk about consistency, finding joy in the process, and ditching the judgment that often comes with fitness. Whether you are just starting your movement journey or looking for motivation to keep going, Casey’s story proves that small steps lead to incredible transformations. Tune in for an inspiring story of determination in a no-judgment zone, and check out the BariNation Community to discover the resources we provide.
IN THIS EPISODE:
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(01:13) April introduces Casey, and they talk about their long-lasting friendship
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(03:34) Casey discusses training for a marathon after bariatric surgery
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(13:36) Consistency and taking baby steps toward your bariatric fitness goals
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(17:24) Using a chalkboard to track and motivate and finding the movement right for you
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(25:11) Tweaking movement for the bariatric lifestyle and removing the judgment
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(37:23) Casey creates her life around running and talks about listening to a positive voice
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(43:13) Visit BariNation to join a community of resources that will empower your wellness journey
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
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Transitioning from an active lifestyle before surgery to becoming a dedicated long-distance runner illustrates how movement is a deeply personal and evolving journey. Beginning with small steps—walking and participating in fun runs—and gradually progressing to half marathons and eventually a full marathon demonstrates that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to fitness; it's about discovering what brings joy and motivation.
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Movement should be a sustainable and enjoyable part of life rather than something dictated by rigid expectations. Fitness, particularly in the bariatric community, should not be defined by pace, performance, or external benchmarks but by personal growth, participation, and joy.
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Casey discusses the unique challenges bariatric patients face when training and fueling their bodies compared to non-bariatric athletes. She underscores the value of working with professionals who understand these needs and adjusting expectations to fit one's body and abilities.
RESOURCES:
Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-community
Want to see bonus content? Head over to Patreon to get more and to support the podcast for as low as $5 per month! https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast
GUEST RESOURCES:
BIOGRAPHY:
I had Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy surgery in March of 2021 and lost half my body weight. In December of 2023 I had revisional surgery to Roux n Y RNY due to severe GERD and a hiatal hernia. Movement has been my biggest growth point post op. My favorite thing to do is spend time with my sweet old lady rescue dog, Olive.
ABOUT:
If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.
About BariNation: BariNation is a bariatric educational organization on a mission to empower patients to access and utilize the tools, resources, and education needed to find and maintain personal wellness. We connect patients with the support they need and when and where they need it. BariNation produces an award-winning weekly podcast distributed on all major podcast and video platforms and hosts a support membership community that teams up with credentialed and licensed bariatric experts and clinicians.