The Italian Society of Diabetology (SID) emphasizes the importance of regular, varied exercise – incorporating aerobic, resistance, and balance-stability training – for individuals with diabetes.
Diabetes is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, muscle loss, metabolic changes, and premature death. Because of these serious health implications, physical activity isn’t simply a lifestyle recommendation for those with diabetes – it’s a crucial part of treatment, alongside diet, offering benefits even without weight loss.
“We’ve always known how important consistency and regularity are when it comes to exercise,” says Raffaella Buzzetti, president of the Italian Society of Diabetology (SID), “but the latest scientific evidence now highlights the importance of variety. Combining aerobic activity with resistance training impacts different physiological mechanisms: we improve insulin sensitivity, reduce visceral fat, protect muscle mass, and contribute to controlling major cardiovascular risk factors.”
One of the largest prospective analyses ever conducted on the topic of physical activity and health, based on data from over 110,000 people followed for more than 30 years in the United States, showed that those who exercise regularly live longer. The study, recently published in the British Medical Journal, likewise demonstrated that varying one’s workout routine leads to a 19% reduction in the risk of mortality compared to focusing on a single activity, even with the same total amount of movement.
“These findings are particularly relevant for people with diabetes,” Professor Buzzetti emphasizes. “Aerobic activity – such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming – improves insulin sensitivity and cardiorespiratory capacity. Resistance training – using weights, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises – preserves and increases muscle mass, promoting better glucose utilization. And exercises focused on balance and coordination reduce the risk of falls, which is especially important for those with diabetic neuropathy.”
The recommendation for people with diabetes – and for the general population – is to:
- At least 150 minutes per week of moderate- or vigorous-intensity aerobic activity (brisk walking, running, cycling, swimming, dancing, jumping rope, stationary cycling, elliptical training), spread over at least three days, avoiding more than two consecutive days of inactivity.
- Resistance training (weights, dumbbells, elastic bands, calisthenics) 2-3 times per week.
- Flexibility and balance exercises (stretching, yoga, Pilates) to complement aerobic and resistance training.
If we accept that exercise is a cornerstone of therapy, it follows that it should be prescribed and personalized to the individual. “Every exercise program should be adapted to age, any existing complications, and current therapy, with particular attention to the risk of hypoglycemia in patients treated with insulin,” explains the SID president.
