Personal Training Helps Manage Diabetes, Improve Lifestyle

By Stephen Daniels

By 2007, more than 23 million people in America were diagnosed with diabetes, and this number continues to increase. Diabetes is the seventh most common disease in the U.S., and often is complicated by clinical obesity. While exercise is frequently used to treat both diabetes and weight problems, people with either condition may be more likely to suffer injuries or strains due to poor physical condition. A personal trainer can help diabetic individuals create an exercise program that is safe and efficient.

Diabetes is a very serious disease. In simple terms, the cause of diabetes is the body's inability to make or use insulin well. Insulin controls the level of glucose (blood sugar) in the system. Some of the complications include:

Heart attack and stroke
Eye problems, including total loss of sight in some cases
Nerve damage in the extremities, which can sometimes lead to loss of limbs
Kidney problems that can ultimately lead to kidney failure
Gum disease and loss of teeth
Lack of energy

People who suffer from diabetes should choose a personal coach who has undergone special training and certification in dealing with diabetic issues. There are particular things trainers should monitor while working with diabetic individuals, including circulation and hypoglycemic reactions. Exercising can be very safe and effective for someone with diabetes when guidelines are followed.

Individual instructors are able to provide knowledge, guidance and support in a convenient and safe manner. Some diabetics who utilize a personal trainer are able to lose a great deal of weight, resulting in the ability to lower their insulin injections and have a much better quality of life.

Good instructors choose to start with an evaluation of their new client's health history. Any problems the client suffers from should be discovered during this review, including injuries to both bones and muscles as well as any serious conditions. A trainee may be required to get medical clearance before starting any type of exercise program, especially if the client has a severe or chronic disease.

After working with a client for a brief time, the trainer and client should collaborate on setting fitness goals. The exercise plan should include both aerobic exercise and weight or resistance training.

Aerobic exercise increases sensitivity to insulin and helps to control blood sugar. When incorporated with proper nutrition, physical activity strengthens normal glucose metabolism by lowering body fat. Strength or resistance training also helps to decrease body fat by increasing the metabolism. The primary benefit of training is to enhance glucose intake and the ability to store it. Proper exercise can be the difference between lifestyle and medical management of diabetes.

Exercising with a personal trainer can help almost anyone enjoy a considerable improvement in the quality of life they experience. It promotes the inclusion of many healthy changes, including increased physical activity, better hydration, improved diet, getting adequate sleep and eating balanced meals.

Diabetes is a condition that can be managed by making important lifestyle choices. A personal trainer can get you started down the path of healthy living. - 29887

About the Author:

Sign Up for our Free Newsletter

Enter email address here