Exercise
Exercise Planning: Safety Comes First
Designing an Individualized Exercise Program
Whether a person has type 1 or type 2 diabetes, it’s important to find a regular exercise
program that works. Before getting started on an exercise program, consider these
precautions.
- Work Closely With a Health Care Professional
Consult a health care provider before starting any exercise program. Here are some safety
considerations a health care team will consider when designing a safe, individualized
exercise plan.
- Current Blood Sugar Control
Keep a regular diary of daily blood sugar readings and food intake. A health care team will
determine changes in oral medicine or insulin dose, and/or if food intake needs to be
adjusted.
- Heart Health
People with diabetes are at increased risk for heart disease, especially those who haven't
been exercising regular. If heart tests reveal a problem, the health care team will
provide special guidance to minimize risk.
- Diabetes-Associated Neuropathy
When nerve damage affects the feet, it is difficult to feel blisters or sores. People with
neuropathy may be advised to choose activities less likely to cause blisters, such as
walking, cycling, or swimming, instead of running or jogging.
- Foot Examination
It is especially important for people with neuropathy to examine their feet regularly for
sores or blisters. People with diabetes often experience slow wound healing. If wounds are
found on the feet, exercise should be temporarily stopped or modified. Wearing socks and
shoes that fit properly help prevent these types of wounds.
Learn the signs of low blood sugar, also called hypoglycemia. These signs include shakiness,
dizziness, sweating, hunger, headache, pale skin color, sudden behavior changes, clumsy or
jerky movements, confusion, and tingling sensations around the mouth.
Carry appropriate food, drink, or other carbohydrate sources such as 1/2 cup fruit juice,
1/2 banana, four to five snack crackers, or 1/2 to 1 cup sports drink.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids before, during, and after exercise.
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