Wondering when and how to safely start exercising after prostate surgery? This guide from Dr. David Samadi outlines the best recovery-friendly workouts, timelines, and tips to help you rebuild strength and confidence.
When Can You Exercise After Prostate Surgery?
After prostate cancer surgery, it’s natural to want to get back to your regular routine—including exercise. But how soon is too soon? And what types of activity are safe?
Dr. David B. Samadi, world-renowned urologic oncologist and robotic prostate surgeon, emphasizes that while movement is important for healing, it must be done gradually and safely. With the right approach, exercise can help you regain strength, restore bladder control, and support long-term wellness.
Why Exercise Matters After Surgery
Safe physical activity after prostatectomy can:
- Speed up recovery
- Reduce fatigue
- Improve urinary control
- Support mental health
- Prevent weight gain
- Boost circulation and healing
General Guidelines: When to Start
- First 1–2 weeks: Prioritize rest, walking short distances indoors
- Weeks 2–4: Begin gentle walking outdoors or on a treadmill
- After 4–6 weeks: Gradually add light stretching and low-impact activity
- After 6–8 weeks: Depending on healing and doctor approval, begin strengthening exercises
Always follow your surgeon’s advice before starting any exercise program. Dr. Samadi gives personalized post-op guidance for every patient.
Best Exercises to Support Recovery
1. Walking
- Start with short walks around the house
- Gradually increase distance and duration
- Boosts circulation, prevents blood clots, and lifts energy
2. Pelvic Floor Exercises (Kegels)
- Strengthen the muscles that control urination
- Can reduce post-surgery incontinence
- Learn proper technique from your care team
3. Gentle Stretching or Yoga
- Helps improve flexibility and relieve stiffness
- Avoid intense abdominal movements early on
4. Stationary Biking (After Clearance)
- Low-impact cardiovascular workout
- Use a soft seat or recumbent bike for comfort
- Begin only once incisions are fully healed
Exercises to Avoid in the Early Stages
- Heavy lifting (avoid for at least 6–8 weeks)
- Running or high-impact cardio
- Sit-ups, crunches, or core-intensive moves
- Straining during resistance training
These activities can strain healing tissues, impact incisions, or worsen incontinence if introduced too soon.
How Long Until You’re “Back to Normal”?
Recovery time varies by person, but most men:
- Return to light activity within 2–4 weeks
- Resume more regular exercise by 6–8 weeks
- Return to full pre-surgery fitness around 3 months, depending on health and progress
Tips for a Safe Return to Exercise
- Start slow, increase gradually
- Listen to your body—rest if sore or tired
- Stay hydrated
- Wear supportive clothing (especially for pelvic floor exercises)
- Work with your doctor or physical therapist if unsure
You Don’t Have to Rush—But You Shouldn’t Stay Still
It’s normal to feel cautious after prostate surgery, but gentle movement is part of healing. With expert guidance from Dr. Samadi, many men regain strength, bladder control, and confidence through a safe, step-by-step exercise plan.
Recover Confidently with Expert Post-Surgery Care
If you’ve recently had prostate cancer surgery or are preparing for it, Dr. David Samadi offers expert care before, during, and after the procedure—including personalized recovery guidance to help you return to your best life.
Schedule a consultation today
Call: 212-365-5000