We have known for a long time that exercise will help reduce blood sugar for type two diabetics. What is new is that both aerobic and strength training together can have a big impact on blood sugar reduction when both are done.

A recent study of diabetics that was conducted over 9 months took 245 diabetic patients and divided them into four groups. One group did aerobic exercise for 45 minutes three times a week. Another group did strength training with weights and a third group did both. The fourth group did stretching and relaxation exercises. Aerobic exercise was done using treadmills and strength training was done using machines both were supervised by trainers.

Forty-one percent of the combination group was able to decrease their blood sugar and/or medication. Twenty-nine percent of the aerobic exercise group, twenty-six percent of the weights only group and twenty-two percent of the non-exercise group were able to lower their blood sugars or reduce their medications.

This study emphasizes the importance for both strength and aerobic exercise in those with diabetes. It is also important for those without diabetes who want to remain fit.