Swing Your Arms for Better Diabetes Control

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An alternative exercise and its beneficial effects on glycaemic control and oxidative stress in subjects with type 2 diabetes, by Naruemon Leelayuwat and colleagues. Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice 85:e2–e8, 2008

What is the problem and what is known about it so far?

Getting regular, moderate exercise is highly recommended for people with type 2 diabetes to help control blood glucose levels and prevent heart disease. For people who find exercising difficult, health care providers often recommend starting with simple activities that can be easily added to daily routines. Arm swing exercise (ASE) is a simple low-intensity traditional Chinese exercise that has been popular for more than 50 years.

Why did researchers do this particular study?

The researchers wanted to find out if ASE could improve blood glucose control and reduce markers for the development of heart disease in people with type 2 diabetes.

Who was studied?

Participants included 43 type 2 diabetic patients from Thailand, between 50 and 70 years of age, who are sedentary, that is, who do not exercise.

How was the study done?

Participants first did their usual daily activities without adding any exercise for 8 weeks. Then, they performed ASE for 30 minutes per day, three days per week for another 8 weeks. Their usual diabetes care regimens were unchanged in any other ways during the study. Before and after each part of the study, the researchers performed body measurements and laboratory tests to track diabetes control and levels of several chemical markers that signal the development of heart disease.

What did the researchers find?

ASE improved blood glucose control and reduced markers for the development of heart disease.

What were the limitations of the study?

The study was too small to tell whether ASE affected the heart disease markers directly or only as a result of lowering blood glucose levels.

What are the implications of the study?

Performing simple exercises such as ASE may help protect people with type 2 diabetes from eventual heart and blood vessel disease.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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Benefits of Physical Activity

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