Exercise is a form of physical activity; what sets it apart is that it is structured and has a specific goal.

Exercise is an important part of physical activity and can help with managing daily tasks and functions, such as going up and down the stairs or playing with children or grandchildren.

It has many forms; one way to structure your exercise routine is to think FITT (Frequency, Intensity, Time and Type).

• Frequency – how often a week you will do the exercise. For strengthening exercises you will need to do them at least 3 times a week, for aerobic exercises 5 or more times a week.
• Intensity – how hard will you work when you are doing them. Remember your rating of perceived exertion, level 4-6 is moderate activity and over 6 would be vigorous activity.
• Time – when are you going to do them.
• Type – what are you going to do, for example walk/jog/run or resistance exercises, circuit or interval training.

The type of exercise you choose to do will depend on the goal you are working towards. For instance, if walking up and down stairs is a particular problem then you may want to work on lower limb strengthening and endurance.

It is important that you have some way of recording or measuring your exercise routine, this helps you know how much you have done and whether there has been any improvement.

It is never too late to start exercising, however it can be a difficult process. If you are struggling with getting an exercise routine then you can speak to the Prehabilitation team about this and we will support you in this.