Exploring the exercise experiences of lung transplant recipients during the waiting list period: A qualitative study

Lung transplantation is a crucial intervention for end-stage lung disease. However, the shortage of donor lungs often results in prolonged waiting times, during which some patients may experience disease deterioration or even death. Exercise during the waiting list period has been shown to improve cardiopulmonary function and postoperative outcomes in lung transplant candidates. Nevertheless, existing studies primarily focus on physiological indicators, with limited exploration of patients' subjective experiences.

To explore the exercise experiences and perspectives of lung transplant recipients during the waiting list period.

A descriptive qualitative design was used.

A tertiary hospital in Zhejiang Province, China.

Fourteen lung transplant recipients (mean age 53, range 25-74; mean wait time 54 days, range 23-123) participated in the study.

A purposive sampling method was used to select lung transplant recipients from a tertiary hospital in Zhejiang Province, China, between December 2024 and February 2025. A content analysis approach was conducted to analyze the qualitative data.

Four main themes emerged. The first theme, the duality of exercise experiences, included cumulative benefits, adverse physiological responses, and anxiety regarding exercise risks. The second theme, drivers of sustained exercise, involved intrinsic motivation and extrinsic incentives. The third theme, needs for professional support, reflected expectations for personalized exercise plans, safety monitoring and symptom guidance. The final theme, needs for informal support networks, underscored the necessity of family presence, peer interaction, and accessible exercise settings for emotional and practical support.

Exercise among lung transplant candidates during the waiting period is shaped by diverse physical responses, emotional attitudes, and social influences. These findings underscore the importance of tailoring exercise interventions to individual capabilities, concerns, and support needs. Combining personalized professional guidance with flexible informal support may reduce perceived risks and improve engagement with physical activity.