Objective To explore the effect of exercise program based on patient health engagement (PHE) model on postoperative rehabilitation of minimally invasive lung cancer patients. Methods A total of 42 lung cancer patients who planned to receive minimally invasive surgery were divided into a control group (n=22) and an intervention group (n=20) chronologically.The control group received routine nursing care, while an exercise rehabilitation program based on PHE model was constructed and implemented in the intervention group. Results There were no adverse reactions and complications related to exercise rehabilitation in both groups.When compared with the control group, the duration of chest drain retention and hospital stay of the intervention group were significantly shorter, the overall postoperative recovery quality was significantly better, the total scores of Pittsburgh Rehabilitation Participation Scale and exercise rehabilitation knowledge were significantly higher, and the score of Brief Profile of Mood States was significantly lower (P＜0.05,P＜0.01). Conclusion The exercise rehabilitation program for minimally invasive lung cancer patients based on PHE model is safe and feasible, which can promote postoperative rehabilitation, improve disease cognition and relieve negative emotions.