United States Sports Academy
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The Sport Digest - ISSN: 1558-6448

Exercising with Diabetes

Exercise is a critical component in managing diabetes. Aerobic exercise can decrease the requirements of insulin and increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin. Exercise can also help to attain and maintain ideal body weight and decrease the risk for hypertensive diseases, including cardiovascular and peripheral vascular disease, while slowing the progression of diabetic nephropathy (kidney damage).

Type 2 diabetics who have lost protective neural sensation should not participate in treadmill walking, prolonged walking, jogging, or step exercises. Recommended exercises include low resistance walking, swimming, bicycling, rowing, chair exercises, arm exercises, and other non-weight bearing exercises.

Guidelines for Safe Exercises in Diabetics