An Insight into Our Diabetes Exercise Class!

Diabetes is a condition where the body has difficulty regulating blood sugar (glucose) levels because it either does not produce enough insulin or cannot use insulin effectively. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps move glucose from the bloodstream into the body’s cells, where it is used for energy to power our day to day activities.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is one of the most common chronic health conditions in Australia with more than 1.3 million people living with it everyday. T2DM is strongly linked to lifestyle factors such as low physical activity levels, poor diet, high blood pressure and being overweight.

Poorly managed diabetes can also increase the risk of other health conditions including heart disease, reduced circulation, nerve damage, fatigue and many more.

The good news is that exercise is one of the most effective ways to help manage diabetes and improve overall health! It does not need to be intense or intimidating to make a difference. Regular movement can help improve blood sugar control, increase energy levels, improve strength and fitness, and support overall wellbeing.

Questions such as:

Is it safe for me to exercise?

What type of exercise should I do?

Will I be able to keep up?

are all very common concerns.

Getting started may often seem the hardest part. That is why finding the right environment and support is so important. Our Diabetes Group Exercise Class at TSIC is designed to provide a safe, welcoming and supportive space where participants can exercise at their own pace under the guidance and supervision of one of our Exercise Physiologists. The class is suitable for a range of fitness levels, whether you are completely new to exercise or looking to return to regular activity.

What Do We Do in Our Diabetes Exercise Class?

Our Diabetes Group Exercise Class is designed to provide a safe, supportive and structured environment for people living with diabetes to exercise confidently.

Each session includes:

• 10 minutes of cardiovascular exercise x 3
• A strength training circuit x 2

The class is tailored to suit different fitness levels and focuses on improving cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, balance and overall physical function.

How Does Cardio Exercise Help Diabetes?

Cardiovascular exercise involves continuous movement that increases the heart rate, such as walking, cycling or light aerobic exercise.

Cardio exercise helps the muscles use glucose for energy, which can help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

Even small amounts of regular movement can make a significant difference over time.

Why Is Strength Training Important?

Strength training is another key part of diabetes management. Resistance exercises help build and maintain muscle mass, which improves the body’s ability to store and use glucose effectively.

Our strength circuit may include bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, dumbbells or functional movements designed to improve everyday strength and mobility.

Research shows that combining aerobic exercise and resistance training provides the greatest benefits for individuals living with diabetes.

Getting the Right Support

Starting exercise can feel overwhelming, especially after a new diagnosis, but having the right support can make all the difference. Exercising in a supervised group environment allows participants to exercise safely while building confidence and staying motivated.

Whether you are newly diagnosed, currently inactive or looking to better manage your diabetes, exercise can play an important role in improving your health and quality of life. Speaking with an Exercise Physiologist at TSIC to take the first step toward creating a safe and effective exercise plan tailored to your needs and take control of your diabetes today.

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