Exercise

By Sheri Colberg, PhD
Yes, I know we're still dealing with a life-changing pandemic around the world and especially in most areas of the United States, but it is still worth thinking ahead to what comes next. Despite our discussion last month on non-gym fitness trends, it is more than likely that many of us have experienced a change (most often a decrease) in our daily physical activities and, subsequently, in our aerobic and muscular fitness levels.

By Sheri Colberg, PhD
The current pandemic has hit most traditional gyms and fitness centers hard, especially once more has been learned about the likely spread of the virus through respiratory droplets. How are people coping with transitioning to home-based workout routines?

Maintaining a regular pancreatic fat content could reduce the risk of metabolic diseases like type 2 diabetes.

$327 billion are spent annually for the treatment and management of diabetes.

by Sheri Colberg, Ph.D., FACSM
Addressing how to balance blood glucose levels during (and after) exercise with type 1 diabetes is not new. In fact, it is likely the KEY topic to address to be successful at being physically active if you take exogenous insulin and want to prevent hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia during exercise. Strategies include changing in insulin doses and/or supplementing with food, either of which can be done in myriad ways depending on the activity, timing and more.

John, a gentleman in his 70's who has diabetes, always visited my group after he exercised. I noticed he always had something (hard candy) in his mouth and he seemed tired. I asked him why he was doing this candy thing. He said, "After exercise I like to refresh my breath, and want to make sure I prevent a low blood sugar...."

By Sheri R. Colberg, PhD
It pays to get your core muscles — the muscles around your trunk and pelvis — in better shape, if only to keep your balance.  Having a strong body core means you’ll be better able to manage any physical undertaking, even just grocery shopping or a round of golf.  What’s more, core exercises are an important part of a well-rounded fitness program including aerobic and resistance workouts, and they’re easy to do at home on your own.  

As we continue to age, lifestyle choices play a big part in how chronic diseases develop and impact daily life.  

An old axiom says that good things may come in small packages – can the same be said for exercise? HIIT exercises take minimal time but appear to provide benefits in patients with type 1 diabetes.

By Sheri Colberg, PhD
Keeping your balance is essential for staying on your feet and preventing falls as you age, even if you can't leave the house much currently. In truth, many falls happen at home, so there's no time like the present to start improving your balance with these easy balance exercises.