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PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Regular physical activity is an important part of diabetes management and overall health. It can support blood glucose management, cardiovascular health, strength, mobility, and well-being.¹
Physical activity can support your overall health and help your body use glucose more effectively.¹
Being active regularly can also support cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, mobility, and general well-being.¹
You do not have to become an athlete or spend hours at the gym to become more active.
If you are not currently active, start with an amount that feels manageable and gradually build from there.²
Walk
A short walk is a simple way to add movement to your day.
Take the Stairs
Choose the stairs when it is appropriate and safe for you.
Move at Home
Housework, gardening, or simple home activities can help you stay moving.
Choose an Activity You Enjoy
Walking, cycling, swimming, dancing, or another activity you enjoy may make it easier to stay consistent.
Adults are generally encouraged to aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week.¹ ²
This can be spread throughout the week rather than completed all at once.²
Include muscle-strengthening activities on at least 2 days each week when appropriate for you.²
START AT YOUR LEVEL
If you are not currently reaching these amounts, gradually increasing activity from your current level can still be beneficial.¹
Moderate-intensity activity means you are working harder than at rest, but you can still usually talk while being active.²
Examples may include:
• Brisk walking
• Recreational cycling
• Swimming
• Dancing
• Other activities that raise your heart rate and breathing
Long periods of sitting can be interrupted with short periods of movement.¹
Look for simple opportunities to move more throughout your day, especially if you spend long periods sitting.¹
Resistance or muscle-strengthening activities are also an important part of physical activity for many adults with diabetes.¹ ²
Examples can include:
• Resistance bands
• Light weights
• Body-weight exercises
• Other appropriate strengthening activities
Choose activities that are appropriate for your abilities and health.
Physical activity can affect blood glucose, and the response can vary depending on the person, the activity, and the treatment being used.¹ ³
KNOW YOUR PLAN
Ask your healthcare professional whether you need to monitor your blood glucose before, during, or after physical activity and what precautions are appropriate for you.¹ ³
Most people can benefit from becoming more active, but some health conditions, diabetes complications, symptoms, or treatments may affect which activities are appropriate.¹
Speak with your healthcare professional if:
• You are unsure which activities are suitable for you.
• You have symptoms during activity that concern you.
• You have diabetes-related complications or other medical conditions that may affect exercise.
• You are planning a major increase in the intensity of your activity.
• You are unsure how activity may affect your blood glucose or treatment.
Stop activity and seek appropriate medical attention if you develop concerning symptoms.
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Medical Content Review
This educational content has been medically reviewed.
Last reviewed: Aug 2026
References
Medical Disclaimer