Type 2 Diabetes

Physical activity has a positive impact on the insulin resistance often seen in people with type 2 diabetes.Physical activity affects blood glucose levels by increasing peripheral insulin sensitivity, lowering insulin needs,and improving glucose tolerance.Athletes with type 2 diabetes who appropriately manage their diets and who are not taking insulin should be able to engage in physical activity with the same amount of caution as someone with normal glucose tolerance, as long as the athlete does not have any existing blood vessel or nerve complications.Athletes with type 2 diabetes should, prior to beginning training, have a thorough medical evaluation to screen for large and small blood vessel complications associated with diabetes.Slowly increasing intensity and effort of training, while monitoring blood glucose levels, will help athletes with type 2 diabetes accurately assess the appropriate schedule for exercise and food intake to manage their blood glucose levels. Athletes with type 2 diabetes taking insulin must work with their physician and dietitian to set up an appropriate schedule and monitoring system for insulin injection, dietary intake, and physical activity in order to effectively manage their disease and perform at their best.