A beginner's guide to exercising with diabetes
Exercise is key to managing diabetes. Use these tips to get started.
Jan 18, 2026
Written byJameson Kowalczyk
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Undeniable Benefits
Regular exercise is a key component to overall health, and it's especially important for people with diabetes.
The American Diabetes Association encourages physical activity to improve overall health, protect against heart disease, and fight depression. Exercise can also lower blood glucose levels, increase energy levels, and help maintain a healthy weight.
For many of us, exercise seems intimidating. But getting started isn't as hard as you think.
Sources (9)
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- Jack F. Hollis, Christina M Gullion, et al. Weight loss during the intensive intervention phase of the weight-loss maintenance trial. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 2008. Vol. 35, No. 2.
- Kristen A. Carter. Small Changes for Health: Not So Fast. Psychology Today. September 2, 2020.
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Healthy Eating Plate.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Eat Well.
- American Diabetes Association. Eating right doesn't have to be boring.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. How People with Diabetes Benefit from DSMES.
- Margaret A. Powers, Joan Bardsley, et al. Diabetes Self-management Education and Support in Type 2 Diabetes: A Joint Position Statement of the American Diabetes Association, the American Association of Diabetes Educators, and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Clinical Diabetes, 2016. Vol. 34, No. 2.