What exercise is best for diabetes?

Walking, cycling, swimming, and resistance training are all good options. A combination of aerobic and strength exercise generally provides the broadest benefits.(( American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. “5. Facilitating Positive Health Behaviors and Well-being to Improve Health Outcomes: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026.” Diabetes Care. 2026;49(Suppl 1).))

Can exercise lower blood sugar?

Yes. Moderate exercise often lowers blood sugar by increasing glucose use in working muscles and improving insulin sensitivity.(( American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. “5. Facilitating Positive Health Behaviors and Well-being to Improve Health Outcomes: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026.” Diabetes Care. 2026;49(Suppl 1).))

Can exercise raise blood sugar?

Yes. High-intensity exercise and heavy strength training can temporarily raise glucose because stress hormones increase glucose release from the liver.(( Colberg SR, Sigal RJ, Yardley JE, et al. “Physical Activity/Exercise and Diabetes: A Position Statement of the American Diabetes Association.” Diabetes Care. 2016;39(11):2065–2079.))

How much exercise should someone with diabetes get?

Most adults with diabetes should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous aerobic activity per week , plus 2–3 resistance-training sessions on nonconsecutive days .(( American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. “5. Facilitating Positive Health Behaviors and Well-being to Improve Health Outcomes: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026.” Diabetes Care. 2026;49(Suppl 1).))

Should I exercise if my blood sugar is high?

It depends on your glucose level and whether ketones are present. If glucose is very high, particularly with moderate or high ketones, exercise may be unsafe.(( Colberg SR, Sigal RJ, Yardley JE, et al. “Physical Activity/Exercise and Diabetes: A Position Statement of the American Diabetes Association.” Diabetes Care. 2016;39(11):2065–2079.))

diabetes fitness

Exercise

Diabetes and Exercise: How to Stay Active and Manage Blood Sugar
ByTracy Trask May 30, 2023October 3, 2026

Read More Diabetes and Exercise: How to Stay Active and Manage Blood Sugar