Exercise for Diabetics is Important

Regular exercise for diabetics is essential. Numerous studies concerning diabetes and exercise have been conducted over the years. In every case, increasing physical activity improves health. So, what’s the “best” exercise for diabetics? Here are a few suggestions.

Yoga

If you have been sedentary for many years, yoga can help you get back in shape. It’s low impact. So, it’s easy on the joints. It helps reduce stress and reducing stress is important for diabetics, because stress and mental anxiety affect blood sugar levels.

Walk

One study concerning diabetes and exercise showed that even a daily six minute walk was beneficial. Most experts suggest at least thirty minutes per day, but that can be broken up into three 10 minute walks if you prefer. Take a 10 minute walk after you eat. It aids digestion and improves your mood as well as helping your insulin work.

Stationary Biking

One of the hurdles concerning diabetes and exercise is often weight. If you are extremely overweight, one of the easiest activities that you can participate in is riding a stationary bike. Bikes are not expensive. Recumbent bikes are very comfortable, because the seats are large. You can ride while you’re watching your favorite TV show. You’ll be surprised by how quickly the time goes by.

Strength Training

Exercise for diabetics and anyone else should include strength training. It is not only beneficial for weight control. It is also good for the bones. Strength training builds muscle and muscle tissue burns calories, even when your body is resting. It is important not to overdo it. Buying a set of elastic bands may be a good choice. They are lightweight, but increase flexibility and strength just as much as lifting heavy weights

The Benefits

Exercise for diabetics can include swimming, dancing, aerobics, tennis or any other activity that you enjoy. The most important thing is to be consistent. So, pick something that you like to do. If you decide to walk every day, find a walking buddy. It’s more fun to walk with a friend and you are more likely to be consistent.

Studies concerning diabetes and exercise have shown that low to moderate intensity is just as effective as moderate to high intensity. In other words, you don’t have to push yourself too hard. After six months, volunteers participating in the lower intensity exercises lost just as many inches and pounds as the group that worked at higher intensity.

In addition to participating in a specific program, you can simply aim to move more at home or work. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Park your car further away from the entrance. If it takes only five minutes to drive somewhere, consider walking instead. Good exercise for diabetics is anything that gets you moving.