Role of Exercise in the Management of Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a growing global health challenge associated with significant metabolic and cardiovascular complications. Exercise is widely recognized as a key non-pharmacological intervention; however, the patterns of physical activity among individuals with T2DM and their relationship with glycemic outcomes remain underexplored in many populations.

Objective: To evaluate the types and frequency of exercise performed by adults with T2DM and to examine their association with glycemic control and metabolic health indicators in a cross-sectional clinical setting.

Methodology: The study utilized a cross-sectional design and included 80 participants recruited through consecutive sampling based on predefined eligibility criteria. Data was collected at a single point in time using a structured proforma capturing demographic details and clinical variables. All clinical assessments were performed by trained investigators following standardized procedures to ensure reliability and reduce measurement bias. Data accuracy was maintained through double-entry verification. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent was secured from all participants. Statistical analysis involved appropriate descriptive and inferential tests according to data distribution, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: The study population predominantly comprised middle-aged individuals (46–60 years, 37.5%) with a slight male predominance (52.5%), and most participants reported primary/secondary education and sedentary occupations. Clinically, participants had a mean diabetes duration of 6.8 ± 3.5 years, were generally overweight (BMI 27.5 ± 4.2 kg/m²), and exhibited suboptimal glycemic control (HbA1c 8.1 ± 1.2%), with a high prevalence of hypertension (45%) and dyslipidemia (35%). Aerobic exercise was the most reported activity (50%), whereas only 22.5% engaged in combined aerobic and resistance training, and half of the participants exercised 3–4 times per week.

Conclusion: This cross-sectional study of 80 adults with T2DM demonstrates a strong association between regular physical activity and improved glycemic and metabolic outcomes. Aerobic and resistance training independently contributed to better blood glucose control, while combined exercise produced the greatest overall benefit. Structured exercise performed at least three times weekly should be promoted as an integral component of T2DM management in clinical practice.