Type 2 Diabetes – Exercise Tips For Diabetics
Although diabetics should remain in shape as a way of assisting with their diabetes management, there are some guidelines that need to be followed. It is not necessarily common knowledge, but diabetics should not try to conform to the same types of exercise non-diabetics do.
People with diabetes, Type 1 or Type 2, need to perform exercises that are not jarring or require them to use up an extensive amount of energy quickly. By rapidly depleting their body of energy it opens the door for a hypoglycemic episode to occur. This is why it is important to expend the body’s energy efficiently and over time, while still getting in a workout.
Aerobics are still the best option for exercise since it is low-impact and burns a significant amount of calories or kilojoules at the same time. Since this type of exercise gets the heart working without depleting excessive amounts of energy, it makes aerobic exercise the perfect fit for a diabetic. At the same time, it tones and helps to build certain groups of muscles.
A great example of aerobic activity is using a stationary bike. Stationary bikes give a no-impact aerobic workout, strengthening the muscles in your legs and buttocks. These are popular for use in the home, or as part of an exercise class. These classes are really motivational since you are in the midst of others who are also trying to achieve a great workout. This helps to push you beyond your comfort zone.
For those who wish to carry their workout routine a step further they can add strength training. But working out with weights should be conducted cautiously since it dramatically increases blood pressure which can cause existing eye conditions to flare up. Strength training can be carried out using elastic bands or tubes, or very light weights. Using pulley systems attached to a door handle can give you greater resistance without over-exerting your body.
Flexibility is not only important for overall conditioning, but it is essential for a diabetic. It helps to ward off such complications as stiff joints, arthritis and neuropathy. Flexibility is low-impact, but can burn quite a bit of fat very quickly when carried out correctly. Some of the most popular flexibility exercises are yoga and tai chi.
For those who have limited mobility and are just starting out, one of the best ways to work out is in a swimming pool. While swimming is great, it might not be feasible for all diabetics due to various complications they may be experiencing, and their present level of fitness. Even walking in a pool or performing simple leg kicks or leg lifts, tones muscles and burns fat.
Ask About Exercise: When you’re at your doctor’s surgery, tell him you will be exercising more in the near future, and ask whether anything about your current health is cause for concern.
