What's the Best Exercise for Diabetes?

A study set out to answer whether cardio exercise such as brisk walking or strength/resistance training was best for controlling blood sugar and improving Hemoglobin A1C scores for those with diabetes. Our Guide to Weight Training reports on this exercise and diabetes study. The answer was a good one for all of us - doing either cardio or weights for 45 minute sessions 3 times a week improved Hemoglobin A1C by about the same amount. But if you did both (getting twice as much exercise) your scores were even better, showing better control of blood sugar levels.

This study validates the Exercise Guidelines for Healthy Adults 2007. Every one of us should be getting cardio exercise and strength exercise 5 or more days a week to maintain health. Whether you have diabetes or just want to stay healthy, it's time to get moving.

• Exercising with Diabetes
• 10 Tips for Walking with Diabetes
• Weight Training and Diabetes

_{Study abstract: Effects of Aerobic Training, Resistance Training, or Both on Glycemic Control in Type 2 Diabetes, "Annals of Internal Medicine."}