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BACKGROUND There is no consensus about which training methods will give better early outcomes after total hip arthroplasty (THA). OBJECTIVE To investigate the short-term effects of cross trainer exercise on physical function and walking ability following THA. METHODS Fifty patients who underwent THA were randomly allocated into two groups. The intervention program was started 3 days after surgery. The main physical function results were pain, hip range of motion, knee extensor strength, single-leg stance time, and walking performance test. In addition, the number of days of requiring to walk and the length of hospital stay were recorded. RESULTS In the comparison between groups at discharge, the patients in the cross trainer group had significantly less hip pain while walking, improvement in knee extensor strength, increased single-leg stance time, as well as increased walking speed and stride length at discharge. The number of days required to walk and length of stay were also significantly lower in the intervention group. CONCLUSIONS Conclusions: Cross trainer exercise commencing 3 days postoperatively improves physical function and walking ability after THA.