How soon can I exercise after a hip or knee replacement?

You will begin gentle exercises within hours or days of surgery, guided by your physiotherapist. These start with simple ankle pumps and progress to walking with aids. Most people can begin more structured exercise from around week 2-4, with progressive strengthening from week 6 onwards. Your surgical team will guide the timeline based on your specific procedure and recovery.

Will my replacement joint wear out faster if I exercise?

Modern joint replacements are designed to withstand decades of normal activity. Low-impact exercise (walking, cycling, swimming, strength training) does not accelerate wear. In fact, keeping the muscles around the joint strong actually protects it. High-impact activities like running are best avoided as they place greater stress on the joint surfaces, but most other activities are encouraged.

When can I return to sport after joint replacement?

This depends on the sport. Low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, and golf can often resume from 3-6 months. Walking and hiking typically resume within a few months. High-impact sports like running and contact sports are generally not recommended. Your surgeon can advise on specific activities based on your joint type and recovery.

Is it normal to still have some discomfort months after surgery?

Some residual discomfort, particularly with new activities or at the end of a busy day, is normal for up to a year after surgery. This does not mean anything is wrong. However, if pain is worsening rather than improving, is severe, or is affecting your sleep, speak with your surgical team. Most people find that exercise actually reduces long-term discomfort by strengthening the muscles that support the new joint.

Adult performing a supported exercise during recovery from hip replacement surgery

Health Conditions

Exercise After Hip or Knee Replacement: Your Recovery Guide

By FiftyPlus Team | 30 January 2026

Chat about exercise after joint replacement

Reviewed by: Dr Michael Brown Consultant Rheumatologist, FRCP

Sources

Hip replacement - recovery - nhs.uk
Joint replacement (primary): hip, knee and shoulder - nice.org.uk
Knee replacement - recovery - nhs.uk
Joint replacement - versusarthritis.org

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