Table 3 Overview of postoperative rehabilitation protocol – cardiovascular training and return to sports [11]

Stationary cycling

Improve cardiovascular fitness and hip range of motion

Upright home trainer with set height to avoid hip flexion over 90° (start with 15 minutes) If cycling is main sport or participant does not desire return to (any) sport activities

Week 0 – 4 Week 4 – 14

Daily 3 times a week

Cross trainer

Improve cardiovascular fitness and hip functional performance

Start with 15 minutes at moderate intensity (60–80 % maximum heart rate)

Week 5 – 10

3 times a week

Treadmill/jogging

Improve cardiovascular fitness and hip functional performance

Start with interval training at moderate intensity preferable outside on grass/track

Week 10 – 14

3 times a week

Acceleration/cutting/agility skills

Initiate return to sports performance

Zig-zag jogging, speedladder skills

Week 8 – 12

2 times a week

Sport-specific drills

Initiate return to sports performance

Exercises based on patient specific goals or (sport) demands such as kicking in soccer or throwing/smashing in volleyball/tennis

Week 10 – 14

2 times a week