STRENGTH TRAINING IMPROVES GLUCOSE TOLERANCE SIMILAR TO THAT OF JOGGING IN MIDDLE-AGED MEN

The role of exercise in type II diabetes mellitus

A number of studies have demonstrated a beneficial effect of regular physical activity on levels of HgbA(1)C in patients with type II diabetes mellitus, largely due to an increase in insulin sensitivity. Benefits are related to short-term improvements in insulin sensitivity following individual exercise bouts. Regular exercise can prevent or delay the onset of type II diabetes in high-risk populations. The insulin resistant state is associated with a cluster of cardiovascular risk factors all of which improve with regular physical activity. Because of the high incidence of occult coronary disease, patients need a cardiovascular evaluation when initiating an exercise program. High intensity exercise may result in retinal hemorrhage and transient worsening of diabetic proteinuria. The most common complication is hypoglycemia. A combination of aerobic and light resistance exercise is appropriate. Patients should exercise a minimum of three times a week for 30-60 minutes at 50% to 75% of their VO(2max). (c) 2000 by CHF, Inc.

Resistance training guidelines for individuals with diabetes mellitus

Resistance/strength training is added to an exercise regimen to create a well-rounded program that enhances muscular conditioning and improves health, physical fitness, and/or athletic performance. This article presents resistance training guidelines for individuals with diabetes mellitus, with and without vascular complications. The existing literature concerning exercise prescription and the acute and chronic physiological responses to resistive-type exercise is discussed. The educator is provided with principles that govern resistance training so that safe and effective programs can be prescribed for individuals with diabetes.

A review of the effects of resistance training for individuals with diabetes mellitus

Although the effectiveness of exercise as a treatment modality for the management of diabetes mellitus has long been recognized, a vital component of the exercise prescription has been overlooked. In addition to endurance training, resistance training may provide physiologic benefits to the individual with diabetes that, in some cases, may equal or exceed those gained through aerobic training. These benefits may include improved blood lipid profiles, increased absolute left ventricular wall contractility, decreased resting blood pressure, improved insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance, improved glycemic control, improved muscular strength and endurance, and increased bone and connective tissue strength. By utilizing a combination of aerobic and resistance training, the individual with diabetes experiences a more comprehensive exercise program that can improve most areas of health and physical fitness. In addition, having a greater number of exercise modality options may enhance exercise compliance.