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STEP - Support Through Education Program

Step 8: Exercise is for life

Regular exercise is key to a healthy liver. People who do regular physical activity, generally stay healthier and have less problems than those who don’t. Keeping active is important while

preparing for and recovering from your transplant. Exercise decreases stress on the liver, increases energy levels and helps to prevent weight gain. Other benefits include better sleep, mood, fitness and quality of life.

So, what can you do? You can prepare for your surgery by starting to do regular exercise. Exercise uses the large muscles of your body, raises your heart rate, and increases the rate of your breathing. Common forms of exercise are walking, swimming, cycling, aerobics and dancing.

Housework, gardening and home maintenance are also great. Walking is the cheapest and safest form of exercise and is good to start before and continue after your surgery. When you begin your walking program you should start with a 5 to 10 minute walk at a slow pace and slowly build your speed and distance. Gentle strengthening exercises with light weights can also improve your muscle and bone strength.

The exercise you do should be light to moderate, if you are breathless and unable to talk you are working too hard. If you would like to return to heavier activity, that is heavy weights, running or team sports please speak to your doctor first.

Guidelines for safe walking

  • Wait at least 1 hour after meals before walking
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing and well-cushioned flat soled shoes
  • Don’t exercise in extreme heat and humidity
  • Ensure that you drink water before, during and after exercise
  • It is okay to rest before, during or after you walk
  • Walk on flat ground first and then build up to hills as your fitness gets better
  • Start slowly and gradually build up as things become easier. Be aware of your own symptoms, everyone is different
  • If you suddenly find your walking or activity is harder for no reason, it may be a good idea to see your doctor for a check-up
  • Don’t walk if you have a fever or a bad cold
  • Don’t hold your breath while exercising. Walk at a speed where you can easily speak in full sentences without becoming breathless
  • It is a good idea to walk with someone to make your exercise more fun. Remember, walk at your pace, not anyone else’s pace!

If you become extremely short of breath, tired, dizzy or have chest pain, stop immediately to rest until the symptoms pass. Get medical attention if they continue.

In this guide:

  1. Step 1: Waiting for the transplant
  2. Step 2: Carers
  3. Step 3: The gift of a donor liver
  4. Step 4: Admission for the transplant
  5. Step 5: The transplant operation
  6. Step 6: The intensive care experience
  7. Step 7: The transplant unit
  8. Step 8: Exercise is for life
  9. Step 9: Nutrition
  10. Step 10: Medications for life
  11. Step 11: Leaving hospital, attending clinics and other details
  12. Step 12: Life after transplantation
  13. In conclusion

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Last updated:
25 November 2022
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