How Strength Training Helps Manage Type 2 Diabetes
As women, we sure are busy! Between working, caring for kids or grandkids, and all the other things we juggle in our lives, exercise sometimes takes a back burner. But working out is important, especially if you have type 2 diabetes. A regular exercise routine that includes strength training for women is one of the most powerful things you can do to keep type 2 diabetes under control.1
One reason it’s good to engage in both aerobic exercise and strength training for diabetes is that when you lift weights, your muscles use energy. To get that energy, your body burns glucose (sugar). The more you exercise, the more glucose you burn. And if you have diabetes, exercise makes your body more sensitive to insulin, the hormone that helps your body use blood sugar for energy. Combination strength training and aerobic exercise routines like the Curves circuit help the sugar in your bloodstream to move into cells, where it can be burned for energy rather than expelled through your kidneys. 2
Lower blood sugar levels mean a lower risk for health complications from diabetes, such as nerve damage and heart disease.3
The results you get from strength training will help control diabetes, too. Muscle burns more calories than fat, so the bigger and stronger your muscles, and the less fat you have on your body, the more calories you will burn and the less insulin you will need. More calories burned and less insulin equals better blood sugar control. 4
As your muscles grow, they also get better at storing glucose, which helps your body regulate its blood sugar levels. And because you exert so much energy when you lift weights, strength training is a great way to lose weight and keep it off. Weight control is very important if you have type 2 diabetes. 5
If you’ve been strength training for diabetes, great! Keep up the good work. One of the most rewarding parts of strength training is the more you do it, the stronger you get, and the heavier the weights you can lift.
If you’re new to exercise, our 30-minute workouts for women are the perfect way for you to start your journey to strength and better health. With your Curves Coach at your side for every workout, you’ll get the guidance you need to ensure you are getting a safe, effective full body workout. And as we have talked about, the Curves workout is great exercise for diabetes control, too. The American Diabetes Association recommends you exercise moderately for 30 minutes per day, five days a week. The Curves Circuit provides regular aerobic exercise for diabetes control, strength training, and improved fitness, balance, and flexibility. 6
Because it combines strength training and aerobic exercise, the Curves Circuit is an ideal program if you have diabetes. Plus, regular strength training and aerobic exercise has been shown to help prevent heart disease, boost mental health, and help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight. If you have diabetes or any other medical condition and are thinking of starting an exercise routine like the Curves Circuit—or getting back to one after taking a break—talk with your health care provider to make sure it’s safe for you.
How Curves Can Help
Whether you’re engaging in exercise for diabetes, trying to lose weight, or simply want to get healthier, getting started with a regular exercise routine and staying motivated can be challenging. At Curves, we will help you every step of the way. The Nutrition Program will help you better understand nutrition and weight management, so you can adopt healthy eating habits you will keep for life. And the Curves Circuit will give you the full body workout you need to improve your wellbeing, stay strong and maintain a healthy weight long term. It is always recommended that you consult your primary care provider before beginning any nutrition or exercise program.
For more information about Curves, visit https://www.curves.com/au/about/why-curves
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