Preoperative High-Intensity Exercise: Boosting Surgical Recovery

Short sessions of high-intensity exercise, specifically high-intensity interval training (HIIT), before surgery can improve cardiorespiratory fitness and reduce the risk of complications, according to a review of 12 studies. The analysis found that HIIT can significantly enhance patients' fitness levels, as measured by indicators such as peak oxygen uptake, which is crucial for post-surgery recovery. HIIT exercises also lowered the odds of postoperative complications by 56%. However, more research is needed to determine if HIIT is more effective than other forms of exercise for prehabilitation.