KANALEY-2022-EXERCISE & PA in T2D - ACSM Consensus Statement
KANALEY-2022-EXERCISE & PA in T2D - ACSM Consensus Statement
KANALEY-2022-EXERCISE & PA in T2D - ACSM Consensus Statement
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Med Sci Sports Exerc. Author manuscript; available in PMC 2023 February 01.
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Abstract
This consensus statement is an update of the 2010 ACSM position stand on exercise and type 2
diabetes. Since then, a substantial amount of research on select topics in exercise in individuals
of various ages with type 2 diabetes has been published while diabetes prevalence has continued
to expand worldwide. This consensus statement provides a brief summary of the current evidence
and extends and updates the prior recommendations. The document has been expanded to include
physical activity, a broader, more comprehensive definition of human movement than planned
exercise, and reducing sedentary time. Various types of physical activity enhance health and
glycemic management in people with type 2 diabetes, including flexibility and balance exercise,
and the importance of each recommended type or mode is discussed. In general, the 2018
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Corresponding author: Corresponding author name, Jill Kanaley, PhD, University of Missouri, 204 Gwynn Hall, Columbia, MO.
This article is being published as an official pronouncement of the American College of Sports Medicine. This pronouncement was
reviewed for the American College of Sports Medicine by members-at-large and the Pronouncements Committee.
Care has been taken to confirm the accuracy of the information present and to describe generally accepted practices. However,
the authors, editors, and publisher are not responsible for errors or omissions or for any consequences from the application of the
information in this publication and make no warranty, expressed or implied, with respect to the currency, completeness, or accuracy of
the contents of the publication. The application of this information in a particular situation remains the professional responsibility of
the practitioner; the clinical treatments described and recommended may not be considered absolute and universal recommendations.
Click here (***include URL) to download a slide deck that summarizes this ACSM Expert Consensus Statement on Exercise/Physical
Activity and Type 2 Diabetes
COI Disclosures
MC is part of the Speakers Bureau for: Novo Nordisk, Boerhinger Ingelheim, Eli Lilly, and Medtronic. He has an affiliation with
Diabetes Training Camp Foundation.
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Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans apply to all individuals with type 2 diabetes, with
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a few exceptions and modifications. People with type 2 diabetes should engage in physical
activity regularly and be encouraged to reduce sedentary time and break up sitting time with
frequent activity breaks. Any activities undertaken with acute and chronic health complications
related to diabetes may require accommodations to ensure safe and effective participation. Other
topics addressed are exercise timing to maximize its glucose-lowering effects and barriers to and
inequities in physical activity adoption and maintenance.
Synopsis
This consensus statement is an update of the 2010 position stand on exercise and type 2 diabetes
(T2D) published jointly by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the American
Diabetes Association (ADA) (1, 2). In the ensuing decade, a considerable amount of research
on select topics in exercise in individuals of varying ages with T2D has been published while
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diabetes prevalence has continued to expand worldwide. The objective of this consensus statement
is to provide readers with a summary of the current evidence and extend and update the prior
recommendations from 2010. The writing group used a consensus approach to synthesize available
evidence from clinical trials and case reports, narrative and systematic reviews, and meta-analyses,
and the recommendations represent the consensus of the writing panel and ACSM and incorporate
guidance from other professional organizations with expertise in this area, such as the ADA (1,
2). Current science, new topics for discussion, and clinical experience in making recommendations
for participation by people with T2D of all ages are highlighted. In addition, the title of the
consensus statement and the text itself have been expanded to include physical activity, a broader,
more comprehensive definition of human movement of which structured or planned exercise is a
subset.
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Keywords
exercise; physical activity; type 2 diabetes
Introduction
Currently diabetes affects over 463 million people worldwide (3), and its prevalence in
the United States is 10.5% (4). T2D accounts for 90-95% of all cases (5). The goal of
treatment for T2D is to facilitate an individualized treatment plan, one that may include
education, glycemic management, reduction of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, and
ongoing screening for microvascular complications, in order to achieve and maintain optimal
blood glucose, lipid, and blood pressure levels that prevent or delay chronic complications.
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Lifestyle interventions and/or medications are usually prescribed for treatment of T2D, and
more recently, bariatric surgery has also become part of a possible treatment plan.
During any type of physical activity (PA), glucose uptake into active skeletal muscles
increases via insulin-independent pathways. Blood glucose levels are maintained by
glucoregulatory hormone-derived increases in hepatic glucose production and mobilization
of free fatty acids (6, 7), which may be impaired by insulin resistance or diabetes (7).
Improvements in systemic, and possibly hepatic, insulin sensitivity following any PA can
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last from 2 to 72 h, with reductions in blood glucose closely associated with PA duration and
intensity (8–10). Additionally, regular PA enhances β-cell function (11), insulin sensitivity
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(12), vascular function (13, 14), and gut microbiota (15), all of which may lead to better
diabetes and health management as well as disease risk reduction.
7 d may improve glycemia without lowering body weight via increased insulin-stimulated
glucose disposal and suppression of hepatic glucose production (12). Short-term aerobic
exercise in individuals with obesity and T2D improves whole body insulin action through
gains in peripheral insulin sensitivity more so than hepatic insulin sensitivity (17). Meta-
analyses and systematic reviews have confirmed that regular aerobic exercise training
improves glycemia in adults with T2D, with fewer daily hyperglycemic excursions and
0.5-0.7% reductions in hemoglobin A1C (A1C) (18–22). Regular training also improves
insulin sensitivity, lipids, blood pressure, other metabolic parameters, and fitness levels, even
without weight loss (23, 24).
in strength, bone mineral density, blood pressure, lipid profiles, skeletal muscle mass,
and insulin sensitivity (25). Combined with modest weight loss, resistance training may
increase lean skeletal muscle mass and reduce A1C three-fold more in older adults with
T2D compared to a calorie-restricted, non-exercising group that lost skeletal muscle mass
(26). A recent meta-analysis of resistance exercise suggests that high-intensity training is
more beneficial than low-to-moderate-intensity training for overall glucose management and
attenuation of insulin levels in adults with T2D (27).
combined training group participants had a greater exercise volume. In another trial,
combined training significantly improved A1C levels over non-exercising controls, although
neither resistance nor aerobic training alone resulted in significant changes (29). Moreover,
the combined group lost more weight and improved aerobic fitness more so than controls. A
meta-analysis (21) showed that all three exercise modalities favorably impact glycemia and
insulin sensitivity, and combined training may produce greater reductions in A1C than either
training modality alone (30).
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well as enhanced insulin sensitivity and pancreatic β-cell function in adults with T2D (35).
Individuals with T2D who seek to improve glycemia with HIIE should closely monitor their
responses to training, as chronic intense training may have negative effects such as transient
post-exercise hyperglycemia.
The maximal activity of citrate synthase and skeletal muscle mitochondrial protein content
in adults with T2D are improved following just 6 sessions of low-volume HIIE (36). Further
changes observed with HIIE training include greater reduction in A1C and CVD risk factors
with less exercise time (37), as well as enhanced diastolic function (38), increased left
ventricular wall mass, greater end-diastolic blood volume due to increased stroke volume
and left ventricular ejection fraction (39), and improved endothelial function (40).
Glycemia and insulin sensitivity in adults with overweight/obesity and with insulin
resistance, prediabetes, or T2D are improved similarly with different modes of structured
exercise training when energy expenditure is matched (41–44). Adverse events have been
reported in 34% of studies included in a meta-analysis, with a majority attributable to
musculoskeletal injuries during HIIE rather than moderate training (45). The benefits of
other types of PA are less well established and have mixed glycemic outcomes. Yoga may
improve A1C, blood lipids, and body composition in adults with T2D (46); whereas, tai chi
may improve glycemic management, balance, neuropathic symptoms, and some dimensions
of quality of life (47). Further studies are required to fully establish the potential benefits of
yoga and tai chi in populations with T2D.
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T2D Prevention.
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The U.S. Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) multicenter trial utilized ILS with a goal of
achieving modest (5-7%) weight loss and led to the important observation that for every
1 kg of body weight lost, T2D risk was reduced by 16% (48). Even among those failing
to meet the weight loss goal of 7% during the first year, individuals meeting the PA goal
had a 44% reduction in diabetes incidence, independent of the small weight loss (−2.9 kg)
(48). The DPP outcomes study (DPPOS) has shown a higher incidence of T2D onset in
those who gained weight at 10 and 15 years after participating in the original ILS arm
(49, 50). More recent follow-up data from DPPOS shows that cumulative T2D incidence
remained lower in the ILS group, a finding not explained by differences in body weight
among groups (51); rather, PA was inversely related to incident of T2D for all participants.
Importantly prevention of T2D was enhanced in active participants with lower baseline PA,
and moderate-intensity walking (about 18.2 km/wk) improved oral glucose tolerance with
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only 2 kg of weight loss (52). Overall, individuals at high risk for developing T2D who have
initially low PA levels benefit the most from moderate-intensity walking and other exercise
with minimal weight loss.
pressure in most individuals (54, 55). During the first year of the trial, ILS participants
experienced greater reductions in A1C, initial improvements in fitness and attenuation of
all CVD risk factors except for LDL-C levels. Further, ILS did not reduce the occurrence
of a composite CVD outcome score over 9.6 y despite the greater, sustained weight loss
in participants (56), but the participants had fewer hospitalizations, medications, and health
care costs over 10 y (57). Thus, lifestyle interventions that include PA in recommended
amounts and possible weight loss remain important approaches in the management of T2D
and CVD risks.
daily moderate-intensity aerobic exercise induced weight loss similar to dietary restrictions
alone, with similar reductions in abdominal subcutaneous and visceral fat observed in
both groups. Regular exercise without weight loss also reduced subcutaneous and visceral
fat and prevented further weight gain (58). In postmenopausal women with T2D, modest
weight loss with either dietary restriction alone or diet plus exercise similarly reduced total
abdominal fat, subcutaneous adipose tissue, and glycemia, but the addition of exercise was
necessary for visceral adipose tissue loss (61), which leads to lesser metabolic dysfunction
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and CVD risk. Thus, moderate-to high-intensity exercise (~500 kcal) done 4-5 d/wk appears
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to reduce abdominal, but particularly visceral, fat in adults with T2D and may lower their
metabolic risk.
and lowered gestational weight gain before the mid-second trimester (70). A recent meta-
analysis concluded that prenatal exercise alone, including 140 min of moderate-intensity
exercise weekly, results in a 25% reduction in risk of GDM, preeclampsia, and gestational
hypertension (71). Regular PA of any type during pregnancy decreases the incidence
of GDM and maternal weight gain without serious adverse events (72). It is widely
recommended that pregnant women participate in ~20-30 min of moderate-intensity aerobic
exercise most days of the week, but the total amount of PA needed to achieve these diabetes
risk reductions may be greater (73, 74).
Mental Health.
Participation in both short-and long-term exercise training has been shown to substantially
decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety in individuals across all age groups diagnosed
with clinical depression (75). Exercise increases certain brain hormones that modulate
hippocampal plasticity to improve both cognition and mental health (76). In the Look
AHEAD trial, participants following ILS had improved health-related quality of life and
reduced symptoms of depression after 12 m (77), and the benefit extended as long as 8 y
(78). In the U-TURN study (79), participants with T2D who undertook ILS experienced
improvements in the physical component of quality-of-life scores but with no change in
the mental component at 1 y. Collectively, these studies suggest that regular exercise may
improve psychological well-being, including health-related quality of life and depressive
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for 3 d/wk) combined with moderate-intensity treadmill walking (70% VO2peak for 2d/wk)
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induced improvements in insulin action (94, 95). Adults with comorbid health conditions
and compromised older adults with T2D should aim to get as much aerobic activity as their
physical and mental health allows.
Flexibility Exercise.—Exercises that enhance joint flexibility are highly beneficial for
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health and well-being in older adults with T2D. Limitations to joint mobility, resulting in
part from glycation occurring with normal aging, may be accelerated by hyperglycemia (97).
While stretching exercises increase range of motion and flexibility (98), they generally do
not impact glycemia unless undertaken as part of another PA such as yoga (99). Flexibility
exercises, alone or in combination with resistance training, has been shown to improve
joint range-of-motion in individuals with T2D and facilitates participation in activities that
require flexibility (98). Moreover, flexibility training is generally low-intensity and easier to
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perform, thereby providing one possible entry into a more physically active lifestyle for less
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Balance Exercise.—Many lower body and core resistance exercises double as balance
training (100). Power training undertaken by adults with T2D can improve overall body
balance (101). Balance exercises may reduce the risk of falls by improving balance and gait,
even in adults with peripheral neuropathy (102, 103). At-home balance exercises may reduce
risk of falls even without significant changes in leg strength in older adults with T2D at
increased risk for falls (103).
Other Types of Exercise and PA.—Along with traditional static and dynamic
stretching, yoga, tai chi, and other types of PA may also provide health and glycemic
benefits. Inclusive of basic stretching and strengthening activities, yoga may improve overall
glycemia, lipid levels, and body composition in adults with T2D (46, 99, 104, 105). Tai chi
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training incorporates some balance, stretching, and resistance elements and may improve
glycemia, reduce BMI and neuropathic symptoms, and increase balance and quality of life
in adults with T2D and neuropathy (106, 107). Various forms of qigong may improve A1C
levels and other health and fitness parameters including balance (106, 108, 109). Pilates may
improve blood glucose management, along with functional capacity, in older adults with
T2D (110). Thus, many alternate types of exercise and PA may be appropriate and beneficial
for adults with T2D, especially individuals with lower initial fitness and poorer balance.
Sedentary Time and Activity Breaks.—Physical inactivity (i.e., sitting or lying while
awake) increases the risk of T2D across all racial and ethnic groups (111). In sedentary
adults with 9 h of sedentary behavior per day, 1 h extra of sedentary time daily over an 8-d
period is associated with a 22% increase in the odds of developing T2D (112). Furthermore,
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In adults with T2D, the interruption of prolonged sitting with activity breaks, such as
light-intensity walking or simple resistance activities for 3 min every 30 min over 8 h,
decreases postprandial glucose, insulin, C-peptide, and triglyceride levels (115). Replacing
sitting time with standing (2.5 h/d) and light-intensity walking (totaling 2.2 h/d) every 30
min may improve 24-h glucose levels and insulin sensitivity more than structured exercise
(116). Bouts of stair climbing also have been effective at reducing postprandial glycemia
(117, 118), but not necessarily A1C (119). Short 5-min breaks every h over 12 h more
effectively lowered glucose and insulin levels than 1 h of moderate-intensity continuous
exercise at the beginning of the day in people with impaired glucose tolerance (120), and
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short bouts of exercise (HIIE consisting of 6 × 1 min walking at 90% max HR) 30 min
before meals reduces glucose levels more than a single 30-min bout of moderate walking
(121). Small “doses” of PA to break up sitting moderately attenuate postprandial glucose
and insulin levels, somewhat more than moderate continuous exercise, with greater effects
in people with insulin resistance and a higher BMI (122). However, breaks from sitting
have not been shown to lower hyperglycemia in free-living environments (123). Whether
long-term use of breaks in sedentary time has clinically relevant glycemic benefits remains
unclear.
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PA goals recommended for youth and adolescents with T2D are the same as for youth in the
general population (92, 93). Childhood obesity and T2D occur in complex psychosocial
and cultural environments making successful implementation of lifestyle interventions
difficult (124). Youth with T2D manifest both insulin resistance and non-autoimmune β-cell
failure similar to adults; however, youth-onset is associated with a more rapid decline
in β-cell function and acceleration of diabetes complications. The Bright Bodies Weight
Management Program for Children, a year-long 2x/wk exercise and nutrition/behavior
modification program in youth with obesity without diabetes, reduced insulin resistance and
T2D risk (125). In a multicenter study in youth with T2D (the TODAY Study), metformin
therapy managed glycemia in half of participants, and the addition of rosiglitazone, but
not lifestyle changes including PA, was superior to metformin alone (126, 127). A 12-wk
gym-based, supervised program in adolescents with T2D improved endothelial function and
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health, independent of changes in insulin sensitivity (14). Thus, home-based and gym-based
exercise and weight management programs should be encouraged for youth with T2D
to enhance insulin sensitivity and cardiometabolic function and manage overweight and
obesity.
participants with T2D had lower rates of major CVD outcomes (< 1%), with no differences
between those who underwent stress testing (sedentary with 1 or more cardiac risk factors)
and those who did not over 3.4 y, and pre-exercise stress testing did not reduce CVD events
(128). In the Look AHEAD trial, only older age was associated with increased prevalence
of all abnormalities during maximal exercise stress testing (129), and in the DIAD trial,
more intensive testing did not alter event rates (130). Moreover, no evidence is available to
determine whether pre-exercise evaluation involving stress testing is necessary or beneficial
before participation in anaerobic or resistance training. Coronary ischemia is less likely to
occur during resistance compared with aerobic exercise eliciting the same heart rate, and
some doubt exists that resistance exercise induces ischemia (131–133).
Numerous acute and chronic health issues may arise around PA initiated by individuals
with T2D. Of primary concern are exercise-related hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. In
addition, exercising with chronic health complications related to diabetes may require
accommodations to ensure safe and effective PA participation.
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Hypoglycemia.
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Individuals managing glycemia with lifestyle improvement alone have minimal risk for
hypoglycemia (134). Use of select medications for T2D may increase the risk of exercise-
related hypoglycemia, including insulin and insulin secretagogues (i.e., sulfonylureas and
meglitinides) (7, 135–137). For example, pre-exercise insulin administration increases
the risk of hypoglycemia during exercise, and both insulin dosing and timing must be
considered. Carbohydrates may be needed if pre-exercise blood glucose levels are likely to
lead to hypoglycemia during or following activities and medication doses are not lowered
to compensate. No medication dose adjustments or carbohydrate intake is necessary for
other oral diabetes medications or non-insulin injectables, such as GLP-1 agonists (96).
Later-onset hypoglycemia is a greater concern when carbohydrate stores (i.e., skeletal
muscle and liver glycogen) are depleted, but usually is not an issue for most recreational
exercisers who are non-insulin users. While high-intensity exercise may be problematic for
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those taking insulin, finishing an exercise session with a short, high-intensity bout has been
shown to be beneficial in preventing hypoglycemia in those not on insulin. Longer duration,
high-intensity PA increases the risk for post-exercise hypoglycemia with use of insulin or its
secretagogues (138).
Hyperglycemia.
Clinical consensus recommendations state that if blood glucose is >300 mg/dL−1 (16.7
mmol/L−1), caution should be advised when exercising without or with minimal levels
of blood or urinary ketones, but ketones are seldom measured or excessively elevated in
individuals with T2D. Regardless, if blood glucose is elevated, individuals are advised to
only begin light activity if they are asymptomatic and properly hydrated (96, 139). Activities
that are short and intense (such as HIIE) may cause a transient increase in blood glucose that
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remains elevated afterward for a period of time (140, 141). Extra insulin (in users) and/or a
lower intensity cool-down following intense activities may be used to reduce post-exercise
glucose elevations, although no treatment is needed in most cases (140). Importantly,
diabetic ketoacidosis, which normally is the result of hyperglycemia and elevated ketones,
may occur with euglycemia or only moderate hyperglycemia in adults with T2D taking oral
SGLT-2 inhibitors to manage blood glucose (142). Given these potential confounders, PA
should only be undertaken when individuals with elevated blood glucose, even without overt
ketosis, are feeling well.
Heat Stress.
Aging alone negatively affects heat loss in both dry and humid environments (143), but T2D
also appears to increase the risk of heat stress during PA, but not during passive rest (144).
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Impairments in whole-body heat loss are related to abnormal cutaneous vasodilation and
decreased sweating (145), which can lead to increases in body temperature and heart rate.
Consequently, many adults with T2D have a reduced ability to do PA, especially in warm
environments, due to an impaired ability to thermoregulate, and with dehydration, their risk
of chronic hyperglycemia increases (146). Moreover, certain diabetes-related comorbidities
and medications may increase the risk of heat-related illness (147). Heat acclimation has
been shown to be possible in adults with T2D engaging in aerobic or resistance training,
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though, with some improvements in exercise-generated heat dissipation and other factors
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after adaptation (148, 149). Nevertheless, individuals with T2D should be cautious when
exercising in hot environments, although they may acclimatize to hotter conditions with
regular PA.
when following general exercise training precautions (Table 4). Certain activities may
be contraindicated due to existing health conditions, and special testing or pre-exercise
preparation may be required (Table 5). In individuals with macrovascular diseases or cardiac
autonomic neuropathy, pre-exercise screening should follow the guidelines set by ACSM
(155) and ADA (96).
Exercise timing
Most acute exercise studies have examined effects on glycemia around breakfast,
demonstrating better management with light-or moderate-intensity aerobic exercise
undertaken postprandially in individuals with T2D (156–158), but this glycemic benefit
does not necessarily carry over to lunch (156, 157). Only one study found better glycemic
management with exercise prior to breakfast (159). A comparison of 2 wks of morning or
afternoon HIIE (3x/wk) training in men with T2D showed that afternoon sessions reduced
blood glucose more than morning sessions, which actually increased glycemia (33). A 12-
wk multimodal exercise training program found that either morning and afternoon sessions
in men and women with T2D improved A1C, fasting glucose, and HOMA2-IR but not
fructosamine, and postprandial glucose and insulin levels were similarly lowered following
a mixed meal (160). When exercise was undertaken around dinner, better blood glucose
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responses occurred with self-selected-pace walking post-meal (161), and blood glucose and
triglyceride levels were attenuated by post-meal resistance exercise (162). Overall, most
studies have shown that postprandial exercise provides better glucose control by attenuating
acute glycemic spikes, and greater energy expenditure postprandially reduces glycemia
regardless of exercise intensity or type, with a longer duration (≥45 min) providing the most
consistent benefits (61).
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Prevention or delay of T2D can be achieved with regular PA and maintenance of a healthy
body weight, and individuals with T2D should focus on sustainable eating plans that
consider the amount and timing of carbohydrate intake in combination with an active
lifestyle to manage glycemia, insulin sensitivity, body weight, and CVD risk. According to
the 2020-2025 US Dietary Guidelines for Americans (163), a healthy eating plan provides
appropriate daily calories; highlights fruits, vegetables, and whole grains; includes reduced
or non-fat dairy products, lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts; and is low
in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, salt, and added sugar. Whole foods-based eating
is micronutrient dense, antioxidant rich, and beneficial in preventing and managing T2D
(164). Carbohydrate restriction reduces body weight and improves glycemia (165–168),
and use of popular diet options (i.e., low carbohydrate, ketogenic diet) and other eating
patterns (i.e., Mediterranean, vegan) are frequently followed for T2D management (169,
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170). Time-restricted feeding and intermittent fasting which have multiple definitions have
become popular in recent years, but there are limited studies to date in individuals with
T2D and the benefits to glycemic management are unknown. Caution is recommended when
implementing a ketogenic diet that chronically restricts carbohydrate to ≤50 g/d to induce
ketosis (170) as insufficient trials in individuals with T2D support this approach (165, 169,
170) and its impact on PA participation and exercise performance remains equivocal (167,
168, 171–173).
and T2D may also be impacted by pre- and post-surgery exercise participation.
Diabetes Medications.
Somewhat surprisingly, pilot studies on adults with insulin resistance have found that
metformin, the most commonly prescribed medication for pre-diabetes and diabetes, may
attenuate exercise-enhanced peripheral insulin sensitivity benefits following acute (174) and
chronic exercise (175) training. In adults with T2D, the normal reduction in postprandial
glycemia with metformin use also may be somewhat attenuated by exercise (176). Although
it augments skeletal muscle glucose uptake during any PA (177) and improves glycemia in
individuals with T2D (178), metformin has been found to potentially blunt AMP-activated
protein kinase activity (174) and mitochondrial adaptations to aerobic exercise (179) and
attenuate skeletal muscle hypertrophy after weight lifting (180) in healthy adults. Thus,
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As for other medications, both GLP-1 agonists and SGLT-2 inhibitors have glucose-
lowering mechanisms and downstream metabolic impacts that may impact exercise-induced
adaptations. GLP-1 agonists may improve A1C levels and fasting glycemia following
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aerobic exercise training in adults with T2D, but these findings have been confounded
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by significant weight loss (182). More research is needed on the interaction of all these
medications and exercise. Insulin therapy is often a last option in T2D, but in men with T2D,
similar reductions in time spent in hyperglycemia and reduced glycemic variations over 24
h were observed following a 45-60 min bout of exercise with and without insulin use (183).
Individuals with T2D using insulin or insulin secretagogues are advised to supplement with
carbohydrate (or reduce insulin, if possible) as needed to prevent hypoglycemia before
and/or after exercise.
Non-Diabetes Medications.
β-blockers blunt the heart rate responses to exercise and lower maximal aerobic exercise
capacity to ~87% of expected via negative inotropic and chronotropic effects (184). While
their use may increase risk of hypoglycemia unawareness with PA by blunting adrenergic
responses, β-blockers can increase exercise capacity in people with T2D and CVD by
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reducing ischemia during PA (185). In adults using β-blockers, ratings of perceived exertion
(RPE) should be utilized to monitor exercise intensity rather than heart rate (186). In
a small number of individuals, statin use has been associated with an elevated risk of
myopathies (myalgia and myositis), particularly when combined with fibrates and niacin and
hyperglycemia (187).
Bariatric Surgery.
Bariatric surgery is now considered the most effective way to improve glycemic
management and achieve diabetes remission over the long term (188, 189); however, less
than 10% of adults undergoing bariatric procedures meet PA recommendations pre-surgery,
despite the nearly 40% of adults saying they feel ready to exercise 14 d before surgery (190).
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Preoperative exercise may benefit these individuals by lowering surgical risk and enhancing
recovery, as well as reducing the length of hospital stays (191). Increases in VO2peak
are also associated with reduced operating time and improved quality of life despite no
additional effect on blood glucose levels or insulin sensitivity (192, 193). Others have
suggested increased exercise pre-surgery increases the propensity for being active afterward
(194). Aerobic exercise training following surgery may further enhance weight maintenance,
glycemic management, and insulin sensitivity (195–197), lower risk of CVD, enhance
endothelial function (198), and improve cardiac autonomic regulation (199). Resistance
exercise training may reverse muscle strength deficits frequently observed after bariatric
surgery (200). Exercise training is also effective in ameliorating surgery-related bone loss
(201, 202), which is common following bariatric surgery (203–205).
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(208), and may include availability of facilities, having pleasant and safe places to walk, and
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access to green spaces (214, 215). Focusing on creating more exercise-friendly environments
is likely to promote greater participation. Setting realistic goals with appropriate activities,
slower progression, and supportive feedback can increase success and confidence (216–218).
Counseling by health care professionals may also be a meaningful and effective source of
support (219). Likewise, supervision of exercise sessions improves compliance and glycemia
(220).
The prevalence of physical inactivity, obesity, and T2D are significantly higher among
non-Hispanic Blacks, American Indian/Alaskan Natives, and Hispanics than among non-
Hispanic Whites (4, 221–224). The disproportionate burden of these conditions is likely
more attributable to social and environmental determinants in these racial and ethnic
minorities than biological differences (225, 226). Physical education in schools, limited
open spaces for outdoor activities, inadequate infrastructure for active transportation, unsafe
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environments, and hypercaloric diets are dominant environmental factors that contribute to
T2D development (225–232). Community environments that promote PA are associated with
a lower incidence of T2D (227, 233–235); therefore, efforts that promote long-term health
outcomes and target environmental factors may reduce T2D (235, 236). Neighborhood
walkability, PA resources, and access to green spaces may reduce T2D risk (215, 235), while
living in urban settings may raise it.
• Further work is warranted to elucidate the cognitive domains that are most
responsive to PA and dietary improvements in adults with T2D, as well
as exercise effects on memory and cognitive function related to glycemic
management.
• More research on the effect of exercise training on vascular function and the
microbiome needs to be conducted in individuals with obesity and with and
without T2D.
• While prolonged sitting has been found deleterious in research settings, studies
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on PA breaks in daily life are necessary to determine whether long-term use has
clinically relevant glycemic benefits in populations with T2D.
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• Social and environmental factors have also been associated with physical
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inactivity and the incidence of T2D and these factors need to be explored further.
• Targeted research is needed to better define the health disparities that exist across
racial, ethnic, and potentially socioeconomic populations and how their impact
on PA participation for T2D and prediabetes prevention and management can be
mitigated.
Conclusions
Various types of physical activity, inclusive of but not limited to planned exercise, can
Author Manuscript
greatly enhance the health and glycemic management of individuals of all ages with T2D,
including flexibility and balance exercise in adults. The latest Physical Activity Guidelines
for Americans are applicable to most individuals with diabetes, including youth, with a few
exceptions and modifications. All individuals should engage in regular physical activity,
reduce sedentary time, and break up sitting time with frequent activity breaks. Physical
activity undertaken with health complications can be made safe and efficacious, and exercise
training undertaken before and after bariatric surgery is warranted and may enhances its
health benefits. Finally, barriers to, and inequities in, physical activity and exercise adoption
and maintenance need to be addressed to maximize participation.
Supplementary Material
Author Manuscript
Funding
C.C. is supported by the National Institute of Health grants: 1T34GM141989-01, 5UL1GM118964-07,
5TL4GM118965-07, 5RL5GM118963-07
J.P.K. is supported by National Institute of Health grants: U54 GM104940, U54 GM104940-S2, U54 GM104940-
S3, U01 DK114156, P01 HL103453, R01 HD088061, R01 DK114156.
J.R.Z. was supported by the Swedish Research Council (Vetenskapsrådet) (2015-00165), the Strategic Research
Program in Diabetes at Karolinska Institutet (2009-1068), the Swedish Research Council for Sport Science
(P2018-0097), and Novo Nordisk Foundation (NNF17OC0030088).
Author Manuscript
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Box:
• In youth with type 2 diabetes, intensive lifestyle interventions plus metformin have not been superior to
metformin alone in managing glycemia.
• Despite the limited data, it is still recommended that youth and adolescents with type 2 diabetes meet the
same physical activity goals set for youth in the general population.
• Pregnant women with and without diabetes should participate in at least 20–30 minutes of moderate-intensity
exercise most days of the week.
• Individuals with type 2 diabetes using insulin or insulin secretagogues are advised to supplement with
carbohydrate (or reduce insulin, if possible) as needed to prevent hypoglycemia during and after exercise.
• Participation in an exercise program prior to bariatric surgery may enhance surgical outcomes, and after
surgery participation confers additional benefits.
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Table 1:
Adults Move more and sit less throughout the day. Some physical activity is better than none.
For substantial health benefits, do at least 150 min (2 h, 30 min) to 300 min (5 h) a week of moderate-intensity, or
75 min (1 h, 15 min) to 150 min (2 h, 30 min) a week of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity, or an equivalent
combination of moderate- and vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, preferably spread throughout the week.
Additional health benefits are gained by engaging beyond the equivalent of 300 min (5 h) of moderate-intensity physical
activity weekly.
Perform muscle-strengthening activities of moderate or greater intensity and that involve all major muscle groups on 2 or
more days/week.
Older Adults The guidelines for healthy older adults are the same as those for all adults.
In addition, as part of weekly physical activity, do multicomponent physical activity that includes balance training as
well as aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities.
Determine level of effort for physical activity relative to the level of fitness.
With chronic conditions, understand whether and how the conditions affect the ability to do regular physical activity
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safely.
If an individual cannot do 150 min of moderate-intensity aerobic activity a week because of chronic conditions, engage
in as much physical activity as abilities and conditions allow.
Children and Preschool-aged children (ages 3 through 5 y) should be physically active throughout the day to enhance growth and
Adolescents development.
Adult caregivers of preschool-aged children should encourage active play that includes a variety of activity types.
Provide young people opportunities and encouragement to participate in physical activity appropriate for their age, that
are enjoyable, and that offer variety.
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Table 2.
Recommended Types of Exercise Training for All Adults with Type 2 Diabetes
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Type of
Training Type Intensity Frequency Duration Progression
Aerobic Walking, jogging, 40%-59% of VO2R 3-7 d/wk, with no Minimum of 150 to Rate of progression
cycling, swimming, or HRR more than 2 300 min/wk of moderate depends on baseline
aquatic activities, (moderate), RPE consecutive days activity or 75 to fitness, age, weight, health
rowing, dancing, 11-12; or between bouts of 150 min of vigorous status, and individual
interval training 60%-89% of VO2R activity activity, or an equivalent goals; gradual progression
or HRR (vigorous), combination thereof of both intensity and
RPE 14-17 volume is recommended
Resistance Free weights, Moderate at 2-3 d/wk, but never 10-15 repetitions per set, As tolerated; increase
machines, elastic 50%-69% of 1- on consecutive 1-3 sets per type of resistance first, followed
bands, or body RM, or vigorous at days specific exercise by a greater number of
weight as resistance; 70%-85% of 1-RM sets, and then increased
undertake 8-10 training frequency
exercises involving
the major muscle
groups
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Flexibility Static, dynamic, Stretch to the point ≥2-3 d/wk or more; 10-30 s per As tolerated; may increase
or PNF stretching; of tightness or usually done with stretch (static or range of stretch as long as
balance exercises; slight discomfort when muscles and dynamic)group; 2-4 not painful
yoga and tai chi joints are warmed repetitions of each
increase range of up
motion
Balance Balance exercises: No set intensity ≥2-3 d/wk or more No set duration As tolerated; balance
lower body and core training should be done
resistance exercises, carefully to minimize the
yoga, and tai chi also risk of falls
improve balance
Note: VO2R, VO2 reserve; HRR, heart rate reserve; 1-RM, 1-repetition maximum; RPE, rating of perceived exertion; PNF, proprioceptive
neuromotor facilitation.
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Kanaley et al. Page 35
Table 3:
In general, maximal graded exercise stress testing may be indicated for adults matching one or more of these criteria:
• Age > 40 y, with or without cardiovascular disease risk factors other than diabetes
• Age > 30 y
and
○ Type 1 or type 2 diabetes
>10 y duration
○
Hypertension
○ Cigarette
smoking
○
Dyslipidemia
○ Proliferative or
preproliferative retinopathy
○
Nephropathy including microalbuminuria
• Any of the following,
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regardless of age
○ Known of
suspected cardiovascular, coronary artery, or peripheral artery
disease
○Autonomic
neuropathy
○ Advanced nephropathy
with renal failure
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Kanaley et al. Page 36
Table 4:
Medical clearance (and exercise testing) prior to starting activities more vigorous than brisk walking is recommended for adults with signs or
symptoms of cardiovascular disease, longer diabetes duration, older age, or other diabetes-related complications (95).
Individuals should not begin exercise with a blood glucose >250 mg · dL−1 (13.9 mmol · L−1) if moderate or high levels of blood or urinary
ketones are present. Use caution during PA with a blood glucose >300 mg · dL−1 (16.7 mmol · L-1) without excessive ketones, stay hydrated,
and only begin if feeling well (95, 139).
Individuals are advised to hydrate properly by drinking adequate fluids before, during, and after exercise, as well as avoid exercising during the
peak heat of the day or in direct sunlight to prevent overheating.
Particularly for anyone using insulin or taking sulfonylureas (and possibly meglitinides within 2-3 h of physical activity), it is important to
carry rapid-acting carbohydrate sources during PA to treat hypoglycemia and have glucagon available to treat severe hypoglycemia (if prone to
developing it).
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Kanaley et al. Page 37
Table 5.
redness.
• Choose shoes and socks carefully for
proper fit and wear socks that keep feet dry.
•
Avoid activities requiring excessive balance ability.
Med Sci Sports Exerc. Author manuscript; available in PMC 2023 February 01.