Exercise for Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin, so glucose accumulates in the bloodstream. Over time, poorly controlled blood sugar damages blood vessels and nerves, raising the risk of cardiovascular disease, kidney problems, and vision loss. The good news is that exercise is one of the most effective tools available for managing and improving type 2 diabetes.

What exercise does to blood sugar

When you exercise, your muscles take up glucose directly from the bloodstream, even without insulin. Regular exercise also improves your cells’ sensitivity to insulin over time, reducing both fasting blood glucose and HbA1c. Aerobic exercise and resistance training together produce the best results.

The 150-minute guideline

Research identifies 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week as the minimum threshold for meaningful benefit. That is 30 minutes on five days a week. Resistance training on at least two to three non-consecutive days per week, targeting major muscle groups, is recommended alongside aerobic work.

Why self-prescribing is risky

Starting exercise without guidance carries risks for patients on glucose-lowering medication. Hypoglycaemia during or after exercise is a real risk. A biokineticist performs a thorough assessment first, considers your medication and other conditions, and prescribes a programme at an appropriate intensity.

The broader care team

Managing type 2 diabetes well requires a team: your GP or endocrinologist for medication, a dietician for nutrition, and a biokineticist for your exercise programme. The best outcomes come from addressing all three consistently.

Need a hand?

Contact JW Bio at https://jwbio.co.za/contact or call 011 880 4719.