Exercise as Medicine: Key Concepts in Discussing Physical Activity with Patients who have Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

People with type 2 diabetes stand to benefit substantially from being physically active. Practice guidelines consistently recommend that people with diabetes obtain at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous aerobic exercise per week. Although the message of 150 minutes per week is important, there are several other key messages regarding physical activity that may not be communicated as often or as clearly. This article gives an overview of the importance of resistance training, the dose-response relationship between physical activity and health outcomes, and the emerging evidence concerning the role of sedentary behavior in people with type 2 diabetes. This article provides valuable content for healthcare providers that will help to inform their discussions about physical activity with patients who have type 2 diabetes.