50 patients diagnosed with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) undergoing surgical correction of the spine were randomized into two groups, one of which received a 4-month physical rehabilitation program prior to surgery, and one that acted as a control. The purpose was to determine the effects of preoperative rehabilitation on cardiopulmonary function and physical endurance as assessed by the 6 minute walk test (6MWT) post-operatively. The physical rehabilitation program provided a significant improvement in 6MWT results and cardio-respiratory status that were maintained for up to 1 year after surgery compared to both the control group and baseline measures.