Searching for good exercises for diabetes? These options will get you in shape and may help with blood sugar levels.
Are you searching for a way to improve your blood sugar levels, stay fit and perhaps lose weight in the process? Well, exercise can be a solution for all of these. There are some good exercises for diabetes, and each has the ability to help the body use or produce insulin better. Plus, exercise is an ideal way to push glucose into the muscles in order for it to be used. And, many people on a diabetes exercise plan report feeling better, having more confidence and an improvement in mood.
To reap the countless benefits of physical activity, you may be wondering, “What are the best exercises for diabetics?” There are so many options to choose from – it really depends on your interests and fitness/mobility levels. Before we take a closer look at specific exercises, keep in mind that your glucose level could drop during or right after exercising. You will want to keep a close eye on your blood sugar levels and keep medicine or snacks on hand.
Now, let’s explore some good exercises for diabetes:
- Go for an aerobic option – Aerobic exercises will get your heart pumping and endorphins flowing. Options in this exercise category include swimming, biking, playing sports (think tennis or soccer), running and even walking. Not only could aerobic exercise help your body’s use and/or production of insulin, but you can burn some serious calories. An hour of swimming can burn anywhere between 400 – 700 calories, and around 65-120 calories burned per mile of walking (higher calories being burned for those who weigh more).
- Stick with strength training – Looking for lean, sleek muscles plus a way to get your muscles to utilize insulin better? Stick with strength training options such as free weight workouts in your home, or weight-related machines at your local gym or YMCA. No need for long, drawn out workouts either – just 15 – 20 minutes of strength training three times a week can have beneficial effects!
- Become more flexible – Flexibility training also falls on the best exercises for diabetics because it improves how your joints and muscles work with one another. If you are looking for a way to help you (and your muscles relax), and prevent soreness after a workout, consider an easy yoga activity. Ballet stretching, and non-dance stretch DVDs are also available to help with flexibility and can be used in the privacy of your home.
Other exercise options you may not think of as exercise include things like vacuuming, walking your dog, playing an outdoor game with the kids, gardening, and cleaning the house. All of these activities burn calories and get your body moving.
For those about to embark on a diabetes exercise plan, there are a few things to keep in mind. As mentioned, exercise can affect blood sugar levels – and for some, this means lowering it during or after the activity. Always know your blood sugar levels before exercising and eat a snack beforehand if your levels are low. In addition, keep juice, hard candy, glucose tablets and your medication with you while exercising. And last, make sure your exercise buddy or someone nearby knows what signs to look for in case your blood sugar levels drop, and what to do to help if needed.
Learn other good exercises for diabetes at www.BetterHealthKare.com, plus tips on diet, and how to better manage and travel when living with the illness.