What Should I Know About Exercise and My Weight?

Type 2 diabetes is strongly linked to lifestyle factors, especially diet and exercise. Managing your weight will help you manage your diabetes. Exercise is an important part of your treatment.

Adding exercise to your daily routine will improve the way your body uses insulin and sugar, resulting in a positive impact on your blood sugar levels. Exercise will enhance your circulation and help your medicines work better. If you are overweight, losing weight will help control blood sugar levels and lower your blood pressure, cholesterol levels and body fat.

In your diabetes education classes, you will discover ways to increase your physical activity to keep you feeling your best. These tips are a great way to get you started. Remember every little bit counts!

  • Explore walking trails at community parks each weekend with your family
  • Find a workout buddy to help you stay on track and make exercise fun
  • Get daily exercise to include 30 to 60 minutes of low-to-moderate intensity cardiovascular exercise, such as walking, water aerobics or cycling
  • Go for walks on your lunch break at work instead of sitting at your desk
  • If you gain weight, increase your physical activity and start eating healthier foods
  • Join an exercise program at a local gym or with a certified personal trainer
  • Limit sedentary activities, such as watching TV, and opt for those that keep you moving
  • Take the stairs instead of the elevator and park farther away when going to the grocery store
  • Weigh yourself weekly and record your weight

Are you pressed for time? Try breaking up your exercise in small amounts throughout the day — 15 minutes here, 15 minutes there. It all adds up and you will receive the same benefit as a single session.

For More Information
To learn more about Sharp's diabetes services or to find a Sharp-affiliated doctor, search for a San Diego endocrinologist or call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277), Monday through Friday, 8 am to 6 pm. To find general information about diabetes, visit Diabetes Care in Adult Health or read the Diabetes News archive.