Type 2 diabetes: activity and exercise

Benefits of exercise

Adults aged 18-64 years should accumulate at least 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity per week, in bouts of 10 minutes or more.

It is also beneficial to add muscle and bone strengthening activities using major muscle groups, at least 2 days per week.

More physical activity provides greater health benefits.

  • Helps you lose weight and maintain a healthy weight
  • Decreases insulin resistance and helps manage blood sugars
  • Reduces risk of heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure
  • Improves bone strength
  • Decreases your risk of certain types of cancer
  • Improves strength and endurance
  • Boosts energy, improves mood and relieves stress

Tips for exercise safety

  • Talk to your doctor before starting any exercise program that is more strenuous than brisk walking
  • Wear comfortable shoes that fit properly
  • Wear your MedicAlert bracelet
  • Check your blood glucose before, during and after your activity to see how your blood glucose is affected
  • Be prepared to treat a low blood glucose, carry quick sugar with you
  • Consider starting slowly and gradually building up to your activity goals
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