New Study Shows Gym Workouts Better for Diabetes Control
For individuals living with type 2 diabetes, maintaining good blood sugar control is crucial for overall health and well-being. While exercise is widely recommended as a key factor in diabetes management, new research suggests that not all workouts are created equal. A recent study published in Diabetology & Metabolic Syndrome found that gym-based resistance training significantly reduced HbA1c levels in people with type 2 diabetes, whereas home workouts failed to show meaningful improvements.
The study, which was conducted by researchers from the University of Exeter and published in the journal Diabetology & Metabolic Syndrome, aimed to investigate the effects of resistance training on blood sugar control in individuals with type 2 diabetes. A total of 120 participants with type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned to either a gym-based resistance training group or a home-based resistance training group. The gym-based group underwent supervised training sessions three times a week for 12 weeks, while the home-based group was instructed to perform the same exercises on their own at home.
The results of the study were striking. The gym-based group showed a significant reduction in HbA1c levels, a key indicator of blood sugar control, from an average of 7.3% at the beginning of the study to 6.4% at the end of the 12-week period. In contrast, the home-based group showed little to no improvement in HbA1c levels, with an average reduction of only 0.2%.
So, what explains the difference between the two groups? The researchers suggest that the key factor is the level of supervision and support provided during the exercise program. In the gym-based group, participants were able to receive personalized guidance and feedback from trained fitness professionals, which may have helped them to perform the exercises more effectively and safely. Additionally, the gym-based group was more likely to have access to equipment and facilities that can help to enhance the effectiveness of the workout.
The findings of this study have important implications for individuals with type 2 diabetes who are looking to improve their blood sugar control through exercise. While home workouts may be convenient and appealing, the results of this study suggest that structured, supervised training programs may be more effective for achieving meaningful improvements in blood sugar control.
But what exactly is resistance training, and how can it be incorporated into a fitness routine? Resistance training involves using weights, resistance bands, or other equipment to strengthen and tone the muscles. It can be modified to suit different fitness levels and can be used to target specific muscle groups or focus on overall body strength and fitness.
For individuals with type 2 diabetes, resistance training can be particularly beneficial because it can help to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce blood pressure, and enhance overall cardiovascular health. Additionally, resistance training can help to build muscle mass, which can further improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of complications associated with type 2 diabetes.
So, how can individuals with type 2 diabetes get started with resistance training? Here are a few tips:
- Start slowly: If you’re new to resistance training, it’s essential to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.
- Focus on compound exercises: Compound exercises, such as squats, deadlifts, and bench press, work multiple muscle groups at once and can help to improve overall strength and fitness.
- Incorporate progressive overload: To continue making progress and challenging your muscles, it’s essential to incorporate progressive overload into your workout routine. This can be achieved by gradually increasing the weight or resistance you’re using over time.
- Consider working with a personal trainer: A personal trainer can help you to develop a customized workout plan that takes into account your fitness level, goals, and any health concerns you may have.
In conclusion, the findings of this study suggest that gym-based resistance training may be a more effective way to improve blood sugar control in individuals with type 2 diabetes compared to home-based workouts. While home workouts may be convenient and appealing, the results of this study suggest that structured, supervised training programs may be more effective for achieving meaningful improvements in blood sugar control.
By incorporating resistance training into your fitness routine, individuals with type 2 diabetes can take an active role in managing their condition and improving their overall health and well-being. With the guidance of a personal trainer and a commitment to regular exercise, it’s possible to achieve significant improvements in blood sugar control and reduce the risk of complications associated with type 2 diabetes.
Source:
