Pre-transplant phase
Discover how physical activity can enhance your fitness and well-being as you await your transplant and improve your recovery after transplant.
Getting started
Pre-transplant patients often need to be supervised when taking part in physical activity. Please consult your transplant team prior to engaging in an exercise program, as they can help guide you to appropriate facilities or programs, whether at a hospital, rehabilitation center, specialized fitness facility, or a tele-rehabilitation program.
Once cleared to exercise, it is important to start slowly. Then, gradually increase your activity level as tolerated. Keep in mind that the goal is to gently prepare your body for the transplant surgery and to always go at your own pace.
During the day, try to break up long periods of sitting by standing up and taking a stretch break or a short walk.
How exercise can help you before a transplant
Research suggests that:
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Exercising before a transplant can speed up recovery and reduce complications after the transplant surgery.
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Exercising before a transplant can improve your ability to do things independently after transplant.
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Exercising before a transplant can decrease the length of stay in hospital after transplant.
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Exercise can reduce stress and anxiety, which you may experience before a transplant.
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Exercise can improve physical fitness, health, and overall quality of life leading up to a transplant.
Starting your fitness journey
Research is limited in exercise in the pre-transplant phase. Considering the existing evidence and expert opinion, here are a few suggestions of activities to be performed while being supervised by an exercise professional:
Aerobic activities
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marching on the spot
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light walking
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light cycling
Strength exercises
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Exercises using free weights, elastic bands, weight machines, among others.
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Light exercises using gravity or your own body weight that can be performed seated or standing.
Flexibility
Stretching major muscle groups after your muscles are warm
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Frequency: daily
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Intensity: stretch to the point of tightness but not pain
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Duration: hold each stretch for 10-30 seconds
Range of motion exercises
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Frequency: daily or as tolerated
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Intensity: slowly bring each joint through its full range without experiencing pain or discomfort
Other activities
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Yoga
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Tai-chi
Understanding your limits
To avoid injury, it is important to be aware of your limits. There are certain steps you can follow to make sure you are not pushing your body too far:
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Reduce your activity level if your exercise program has been interrupted for a few days due to weather, vacation or illness.
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Do not exercise if you are not feeling well (e.g. if you have a fever, diagnosed with new infection, feel nauseous, lightheaded, or dizzy).
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If you are unusually short of breath or feel very tired during any activity, slow down or take a rest.
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If you experience joint or muscle pain during the exercise, stop and rest. If the pain persists, see your doctor.
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Stop exercising and rest if you: have pain or pressure in your chest, neck, shoulder, arm, back or jaw, trouble swallowing, talking or seeing, feel weak or lightheaded, dizzy, nauseous, have unexplained swelling, cold sweats, severe muscle cramps, or feel any other symptoms of concern. If symptoms persist see your doctor.
Questions?
Check out our page of frequently asked questions (FAQs) to find answers to some commonly asked questions.
Learn about the other phases of the transplant journey
Pre-transplant phase
Discover how physical activity can enhance your fitness and well-being as you await your transplant and improve your recovery after transplant.
Early post-transplant phase
Learn about safe and effective physical activities designed to help you regain strength, improve mobility, and support your new organ’s function.
Late post-transplant phase
Explore exercise programs that promote cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and overall fitness, ensuring a vibrant and healthy future post-transplant.