Physical Activity for Diabetics: Beyond Traditional Exercises

 Introduction

Physical Activity for Diabetics: Beyond Traditional Exercises
Exercises


Diabetes and diabetes-related health complications can be managed in a better way with the help of physical exercises. It has further been proven that regular exercise facilitates better blood sugar control, improves heart health, assists in weight maintenance, and helps lift the mood. It isn’t surprising at all that brisk walking, jogging or cycling is what comes to most people’s minds when thinking about exercises respiratory muscles. However, there are other physical activities that can work as well and can be more fun for people living with diabetes.


In this article we would discuss other physical activities that include but are not limited to strength training, yoga, dancing, outdoor activities and mindful movement showcasing the benefits they entail with a number of practical tips on how to integrate these into daily life.

1. Adding Strength Training to Your Exercises


Resistance activities directed at the major muscle groups in the body are called strength training (also termed as weight training). Such type of activity is useful for the diabetes patients as it promotes muscle gain, insulin sensitivity and enhances metabolic activities. A strong muscle base is essential to ensure better blood sugar control and can be achieved by including resistance exercises like weight lifting, resistance bands or bodyweight exercises in the routine. We will outline the reasoning for implementing strength training for diabetes treatment and provide practical guidance on how to incorporate them into your routine.


As a starter program, undertake posture activities such as squats, lunges or push-ups with weights. It is suggested that one carries out this activity for two to three times a week allowing at least a day’s rest between trainings. For the first two weeks suggest only one set of each exercise with 10 to 15 repetitions and gradually increase as one’s strength improves. If you’re not confident in doing these routines or you have a physical limitation, you may want to get a trainer to assist you with it.


2. Beginning Yoga Practice


Yoga is defined as both the mental and physical exercise during which the various body positions are combined with breathing patterns and focusing thoughts. Yoga offers a complete alternative to engaging in a physical form of exercise by concentrating on one's flexibility, balance, strength and also relaxation within the physical body.

Beginner yoga students can easily practice yoga and its postures by following some tutorial videos which are readily available on the internet. Those who are new to practicing are recommended to learn Hatha or Restorative yoga that focuses on the relaxation of the body. Initiate training in small daily sessions of approximately 10-15 minutes, which can be increased as the body becomes more supple or strong. Perfection should not be the aim of practicing yoga, but practice itself should be the aim. Pay attention to one’s body and adjust the positions accordingly.


3. Dancing: Moving to the Beat of Health


Dancing is a fun and enjoyable workout that can be made to suit one’s level of interest and fitness ability. Some people may prefer to do salsa or others hip-hop while there is another category who will prefer Zumba. A person can wait to enroll for a dance class at a community center or do the workouts at home with the aid of online videos. The important thing is to search for enjoyment in the process of dancing. Do around 20-30 minutes dancing of at the beginning of the workout, and as fitness increases gradually increase the amount of and intensity of the workouts.


4. Outdoor Activities: The Great Outdoors


Outdoor activities may be walking or gardening, but they can also be much more active such as hiking or kayaking, and so on. Start by considering some of the outdoor activities you would like to engage in and which would fit your routine. If you’re just starting to exercise, it might be a good idea to go for less strenuous but consistent activities such as taking a walk in the park every day.Little by little as your fitness level allows, increase the intensity of such activities. Make sure to put on appropriate clothing according to the weather, drink plenty of water, and apply sunscreen before you go outdoors.


5. Mindful Movement: Tai Chi and Qigong


Tai Chi and Qigong belong to the gentle category of exercises and are considered to be low-impact therefore suitable for all body types. Commence with short sessions of Tai Chi and Qigong and look for classes at local community centers or the internet to get started. Start off with slow practices of 10-15 tinted sessions where you try to move with your breath while being mindful of and embodying the movements. And as you begin to improve your balance and flexibility, you will be further allowing the length of your practice to be longer.


Conclusion


The recommendation of physical activity on a daily basis is necessary for management of diabetes among patients. Engaging in a wider range of physical activities whilst steering clear of routine exercises helps in fostering the need to be active in daily life. Strength exercises, yoga, dance, outdoor sports, and simple tai chi promote health and stronger immunity but can also be suited to one’s needs or taste. Lastly, always check with your doctor before starting on new exercise programs and heed the advice.


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