Prehabilitation, or prehab, is a proactive program designed to prepare the body for an upcoming medical procedure, surgery, or to prevent injuries before they occur. It focuses on optimizing physical and mental readiness by incorporating exercises, activities, and education to enhance surgical outcomes, reduce complications, and shorten the rehabilitation period. Prehab is particularly beneficial for procedures like joint surgeries on hips and knees, as it targets asymmetries in range of motion and strength to reduce the risk of injury. By improving overall physical fitness and addressing weaknesses, prehab helps individuals achieve the best possible condition before surgery or other significant physical events.

Common prehab exercises include single-leg squats for leg and hip strength, Harop curls to strengthen hamstrings, and Arnold presses to enhance shoulder stability. Face pulls and Aleknas are also widely used to improve posture, shoulder stability, and core strength, reducing the risk of injuries in areas like the back, hips, and knees. These exercises, along with balance, mobility, and plyometric drills, enhance overall movement, function, and performance. To maximize benefits, prehab exercises should be performed 2–3 times weekly under the guidance of a physical therapist or certified strength and conditioning coach, as part of a long-term injury prevention strategy..