The purpose of this study is to see whether exercise can improve the health and well-being of patients scheduled to undergo surgery for a bowel related condition.
The proposed randomized controlled trial aims to recruit 60 patients that have a primary diagnosis of either colon or rectal cancer, inflammatory bowl disease, or diverticular disease and are scheduled for elective surgery. This two-arm clinical trial of an intervention examining the efficacy of a home-based walking and progressive resistance exercise program for the relief of post-operative fatigue and improvement of functional outcome following surgery.
Have a primary diagnosis of one of the following: colon or rectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or diverticular disease Be scheduled for elective (non- emergent) surgery Have the approval of their treating physician, study physician, or physician's designee to participate in maximal physiological fitness testing and a low to moderate home-based walking and progressive resistance exercise program. Be able to read English (since the assessment materials will be in a printed format). Be 18 years of age or older Give informed consent.
Exclusion Criteria:
Have physical limitations (e.g. cardiorespiratory, orthopedic, central nervous system) that contraindicate participation in maximal physiological fitness testing, or a low to moderate home-based walking and progressive resistance program, as assessed by the Par-Q+ and clinician (or physician's designee) Must not be in active or maintenance stage of exercise
