What Activities Can You Return to with a New Hip?
A hip replacement can feel like a fresh start—especially when pain has been limiting your movement for years. But many patients understandably want to know: What can I actually do after surgery?
“The good news is that most people are surprised by just how active they can be with a new hip joint,” says Dr. Nathan Cafferky, board-certified orthopedic surgeon at The Steadman Clinic. “Thanks to the newest hip replacement technology, our patients are getting back to hiking, biking, and even skiing—with the right precautions.”
Let’s explore what you can expect when it comes to activity after hip replacement and how to make the most of your new hip joint.
What’s Safe After Surgery?
Following surgery, the initial focus is on healing and regaining strength. But once you’ve recovered, there’s a wide range of activities that are safe and encouraged. These include:
Walking and hiking
Swimming and water aerobics
Stationary or outdoor cycling
Yoga and Pilates
Low-impact skiing or snowshoeing
Golf and doubles tennis
“These kinds of low-impact exercises are ideal for protecting your new hip joint while staying fit and active,” says Dr. Cafferky. “The goal is to maintain strength and mobility without placing too much stress on the implant.”
This guidance applies to both recreational athletes and everyday active adults. With the newest hip replacement technology offering improved durability and mobility, patients can enjoy a higher quality of life—often with fewer restrictions than in the past.
What Should You Avoid?
While activity after hip replacement is highly encouraged, not all movements are safe. High-impact sports and activities with sudden pivoting, jumping, or risk of falling can increase the chances of implant wear or dislocation.
Generally discouraged activities include:
Long-distance running
High-impact aerobics
Contact sports (like basketball or football)
Aggressive skiing or snowboarding on difficult terrain
Use caution with:
Singles tennis – May be appropriate for some patients depending on balance, experience level, and movement demands.
Skiing and snowboarding – Often permitted on moderate terrain with proper technique and precautions.
“It’s important to understand that even with the newest hip replacement technology, the implant isn’t built to absorb the forces involved in certain high-impact activities,” Dr. Cafferky explains. “Our priority is making your new hip joint last as long as possible.”
That said, every patient’s case is different. During your follow-up care, Dr. Cafferky will help you customize an activity plan based on your lifestyle and goals.
How to Maximize Your New Hip Joint
The most successful recoveries happen when patients take an active role in their rehab. Dr. Cafferky encourages consistent physical therapy, strength training, and joint-friendly cardio to support the new hip joint and overall wellness.
“We’re seeing amazing outcomes thanks to the newest hip replacement technology,” he says. “These implants are more advanced, more stable, and more responsive to the body’s natural movement than ever before.”
Still, how long they last—and how well they function—depends on how you treat them. Prioritizing low-impact activity after hip replacement and following post-op protocols can help your new hip joint perform at its best for decades.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re dreaming of long hikes, travel adventures, or just pain-free mornings, a new hip joint can open the door to a more active life. With guidance from your surgeon and smart lifestyle choices, you’ll be able to return to many of the activities you love—safely and confidently.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Nathan Cafferky at The Steadman Clinic to learn how the newest hip replacement technology can help you return to the activities you love with a stronger, more reliable new hip joint.
