Exercising for Success Before Surgery

Following an exercise program before surgery can make your recovery more successful and reduce the risk of complications.

Perform these exercises six days per week.

Perform exercises that gently challenge you. You should not be significantly uncomfortable while exercising.

Perform exercises as tolerated. Stop if you have pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or lightheadedness and inform your healthcare provider.

Keeping hydrated is important and impacts your tolerance to beneficial exercise.

1. Walking is best

Step 1 - Find a safe time and place to walk. Pay attention to uneven surfaces that may pose a tripping hazard. Avoid the heat. Consider an indoor mall.
Step 2 - Wear supportive shoes made for walking.
Step 3 - Gently progress walking distance and pace.

2. Stand from a chair

Keep your back straight and use your arms if needed.

Your goal is to repeat 10 to 12 times.

3. Lift bottom off chair

Place your feet out in front of you. Use your arms to lift your buttocks off the chair.

Your goal is to repeat 10 to 12 times.

4. Elbow lean

Sitting on your bed, lean to one side, onto your elbow. Sit back up tall, using your arm to push as needed. Repeat other side.
Your goal is to repeat 10-12 times total.

5. Leg lift

Lying in your bed or on another supportive surface, keep one knee bent and slowly raise the other leg no higher than the other knee. Slowly lower. Try to keep your abdominal muscles tight during the exercise.

Your goal is to repeat 10-12 times on each side.