A new Italian study shows the benefits of a supervised exercise program. Compared to simple counseling, people with diabetes who were enrolled in twice-weekly supervised exercise program (cardio and strength training) had a host of improvements:
- Lower Hemoglobin A1c (an index of long term sugar control; lower is better)
- Better physical fitness
- Lower blood pressure
- Better cholesterol levels (more “good cholesterol,” less “bad” cholesterol)
- Slimmer waists!
- Lower body weight
- Less insulin resistance
- Less inflammation
Join a group! Or create your own. I continue to use a personal trainer once or twice a week. Some folks get together and share a trainer – it lowers the cost per person, and strengthens the resolve to continue.
Think you don’t have diabetes? Check! – remember, 1/2 of diabetics don’t even know they have the disease, and overweight/obesity makes it much more likely.
