Diabetes and Exercise

Physical activity helps muscles use glucose more effectively, both during exercise and for hours afterward — making it one of the most effective non-medication tools for managing blood sugar.

Recommended Activity

General guidance for most adults with diabetes includes at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week (such as brisk walking), spread across most days, plus resistance exercise a couple of times a week. Even short walks after meals can help blunt the post-meal blood sugar rise.

Precautions to Know

For people taking insulin or certain diabetes medications, exercise can occasionally cause blood sugar to drop too low, especially with prolonged or intense activity. Checking blood sugar before and after exercise, carrying a fast-acting sugar source, and discussing exercise timing with a doctor if you're on these medications helps manage this risk.

Starting Safely

If you haven't been active and have diabetes-related complications (such as nerve damage, eye disease, or heart disease), or haven't exercised in a long time, it's worth talking to a doctor before starting a new routine, particularly for more vigorous activity. For anyone with nerve damage (neuropathy) affecting the feet, checking feet before and after exercise and wearing well-fitting, supportive shoes helps catch any unnoticed injury early, since reduced sensation can mask cuts or blisters.