Physical exercise and diabetes: keys to train safely

Physical activity plays an important role in supporting diabetes management. Regular exercise is associated with benefits for glucose regulation and can also support cardiovascular, metabolic and emotional wellbeing. To optimise these benefits and reduce potential risks, it is important to understand how different types of exercise interact with diabetes management and which precautions may be helpful.

Benefits of exercise for people with type 1 diabetes

Regular physical activity can support a wide range of benefits for people with type 1 diabetes.

• Improved insulin sensitivity: Exercise can support improved insulin sensitivity, helping the body use insulin more efficiently. Any change in insulin requirements varies between individuals and should be assessed with healthcare professionals¹.
• Reduced postprandial glucose: Light activity after meals may help reduce postprandial glucose increases¹.
• Cardiovascular and mental health benefits: Exercise contributes to cardiovascular health, circulation, stress reduction and emotional wellbeing¹.

Benefits like these not only support physical health, but may also contribute to emotional wellbeing, a key factor in maintaining long-term healthy habits.

Benefits of exercise for people with type 2 diabetes

For people with type 2 diabetes, physical activity is a key element of lifestyle management and is associated with improved glucose regulation and increased insulin sensitivity².

• Improved glucose management: Regular activity may support glucose regulation and increase insulin sensitivity².
• Weight management: Combining aerobic and strength training can help support weight management and reduce visceral fat².
• Cardiovascular support: Exercise may help regulate blood pressure and improve lipid profiles, supporting cardiovascular health².

These benefits are complementary to the treatment plan established with healthcare professionals.

Exercise as a non-pharmacological treatment for type 2 diabetes

Exercise can serve as an important non-pharmacological component of diabetes management.

• General recommendations: Regular aerobic activity combined with resistance training may help support cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength and metabolic efficiency³.
• Strength training: Including resistance exercises two or three times per week may support muscle development and metabolic health³.

A combination of aerobic and strength training is particularly beneficial, as it may help support cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength and metabolic efficiency.However, it is essential to monitor glucose levels before, during and after exercise, as this helps identify potential hypo- or hyperglycaemic episodes and allows for timely adjustments to maintain safe and effective training.

Key precautions for exercising safely

Although exercise can be highly beneficial, people living with diabetes may need to consider certain precautions to reduce risks:

• Glucose monitoring: Monitoring glucose before, during and after exercise can help anticipate fluctuations³.
• Medication adjustments: Discussions with healthcare professionals can support decisions about potential medication adjustments³.
• Hydration and nutrition: Adequate hydration and appropriate carbohydrate intake may be useful when glucose levels are low before activity³.
• Environmental conditions: Environmental factors such as heat or cold may require specific attention, especially for individuals with complications³.
• Gradual progression: Progressive increases in exercise intensity can help maintain safety and reduce injury risk.

These considerations help make exercise safer and more effective for people with diabetes.

Additional benefits of exercise in everyday life

Besides supporting glucose regulation and metabolic health, exercise may provide broader benefits:

• Emotional wellbeing: Regular physical activity may support emotional wellbeing, stress reduction and sleep quality.
• Daily activities: Activities such as walking, climbing stairs or recreational sports can contribute to physical and mental health.

Including physical activity in your daily life can boost both your physical and emotional wellbeing.

Exercise can support diabetes management for people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. With appropriate planning and consideration of individual needs, physical activity may contribute to glucose regulation, cardiovascular health, muscular strength and overall wellbeing. Developing an exercise plan with healthcare professionals can help ensure safe and sustainable routines.

This information is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.