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Preparing for Surgery NHS Lothian | Our Services

Physical Activity

Are you waiting for an operation?

Did you know that being physically active before your surgery has big benefits?

Surgery, and the recovery afterwards, puts extra strain on the body, particularly the heart and lungs.

The good news is that even small improvements in your fitness, strength and balance can make a big difference.

Reduce Complications
Get Home Sooner
Improve Mental Health
Better Recovery

Why Should I Be Active?

Movement is medicine

It improved my mobility immensely and I have seen unexpected results that I wouldn’t have believed if you told me before I started!

Being active is a really positive first step you can take on your road to recovery.

You will see positive changes within as little as 2-4 weeks of regular activity.

Not only will this improve your recovery from surgery but it will also benefit your long term health.

What Can I Do?

Be Active

Keep your body and mind healthy

150 mins moderate activity per week
Increased breathing – still able to talk

Walking
Gardening
Swimming


or
75 mins intense activity per week
Breathing fast – difficulty talking

Running
Sport
Stairs
Build Strength

Muscles, bones and joints

2 days each week

Gym
Pilates
CarryBags
Improve Balance

Reduce risk of falling

2 days each week

Dance
Yoga

If you are normally an active person, great! Keep doing the activities you enjoy.

If you are normally less active, it is never too late to get moving.

No Time Like Now!

So why not find something that you enjoy and make a start today?

Get your friends and family involved, or join a group, to make it even more enjoyable and help you to stay motivated

Joint Pain?

Help is at Hand

Support is available

While there is much you can do to stay active, there is also plenty of support available.

Looking for inspiration for activity ideas? Need guidance about getting started? There are many resources and classes available.

Every area served by NHS Lothian offers a range of classes suitable for all abilities and specifically catering to people with long-term health conditions.

Check out the details below to see how to get involved…

Online Resources