The purpose of this study is to see whether exercise can improve the health and well-being of patients scheduled to undergo surgery for a bowel related condition.

The proposed randomized controlled trial aims to recruit 60 patients that have a primary diagnosis of either colon or rectal cancer, inflammatory bowl disease, or diverticular disease and are scheduled for elective surgery. This two-arm clinical trial of an intervention examining the efficacy of a home-based walking and progressive resistance exercise program for the relief of post-operative fatigue and improvement of functional outcome following surgery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Have a primary diagnosis of one of the following: colon or rectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or diverticular disease
• Be scheduled for elective (non- emergent) surgery
• Have the approval of their treating physician, study physician, or physician's designee to participate in maximal physiological fitness testing and a low to moderate home-based walking and progressive resistance exercise program.
• Be able to read English (since the assessment materials will be in a printed format).
• Be 18 years of age or older
• Give informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Have physical limitations (e.g. cardiorespiratory, orthopedic, central nervous system) that contraindicate participation in maximal physiological fitness testing, or a low to moderate home-based walking and progressive resistance program, as assessed by the Par-Q+ and clinician (or physician's designee)
• Must not be in active or maintenance stage of exercise