We know exercise provides many health benefits and lowers risk for conditions like Type 2 diabetes, cancer and more. But did you know that exercise could help lower your risk for a hip replacement?

Published: January 17, 2018 | Updated: September 19, 2024

We know exercise provides many health benefits and lowers risk for conditions like Type 2 diabetes, cancer and more. But did you know that exercise could help lower your risk for a hip replacement?

Exercise is one of the best things you can do to keep your hips healthy, especially if you already have arthritis. A 2013 study (with a 2015 follow-up) published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases showed that individuals with mild to moderate hip osteoarthritis might be able to avoid or delay hip surgery by exercising.

READ MORE: Exercises for joint pain

The study put people through a 12-week exercise program. Six years later, they were 44 percent less likely to need hip replacement compared with a control group that did not exercise.

Exercise can help strengthen the muscles that support your hips. It also may help you keep range of motion in your hips. Stretching the muscles and tendons surrounding the joint also may ease pain from certain hip conditions and lower your injury risk.

What types of exercise should I do?

Before starting any exercise routine, talk with your health provider about what’s right for you. Water aerobics, riding a stationary bike, dancing and even housework are all ways to stay active. You also can look at our guide for arthritis prevention exercises, “A Body in Motion Stays in Motion,” for ideas.