Effect of progressive resistance training on glycemic control in elderly type II diabetic patients

ABSTRACT

To investigate the effect of progressive resistance training [PRT] on glycemic control in elderly type II diabetic patients. The study was conducted on 40 elderly individuals with type II diabetes. They were divided into 2 equal groups. The progressive resistance training [PRT] group received 16 weeks of PRT program plus the usual diabetic care, while the control group received a controlled exercise program plus the usual diabetic care. Glycemic control, lipid profile, resting blood pressure, muscle strength and anthropometry were evaluated for the 2 groups at baseline and at end of the study. For the PRT group we found a highly significant reduction in glycosylated hemoglobin level [HbA1c] [t=13.64, p<0.001], highly significant increase in muscle strength [t=10.19, p<0.001], trend for reduction in blood pressure and trend for reduction in triglyceride level. PRT when included with usual diabetic care for elderly people with type II diabetes is of benefit in glycemic control and at the same time is safe and well tolerated