How should I start exercising with diabetes?
There are a few things to keep in mind before we start out exercising when we have diabetes. Because your body may be more fragile than before, it makes sense to treat it well from the beginning. Once you have started out on the right track, you can build up speed and energy along the way as you feel comfortable.
1 . Get your doctor’s clearance This is to be sure that our exercise is right for us. We may have to be extra careful in certain situations and our doctor is the right person to tell us so.
2. Walk before you run Build up your body strength gradually. It is more important at every stage to be regular for 30-45 mins daily. Your real challenge in the beginning is to talk to ‘the voice in your head’ that tells you to ‘relax’ or ‘not today’, and get some exercise for a brief time everyday.
3. Wear the right footwear Consult with an expert when you buy the shoes. Make sure that they fit well and are appropriate for running.
4. Dress appropriately Wear light, comfortable clothing
5. Find a partner or role model Look in your family or society for people that go out regularly. You will probably find them if you yourself become regular. It will start with ‘hi’ and ‘hello’ and then you will find that you are making friends for exercise.
6. Ignore the voice in your head that says ‘don’t go today’ Being regular is easy if you ignore that voice. Being regular is difficult if you start to listen to that voice. And trust me – all of us have that voice that tells us to take it easy, even that fit couple that lives in your society. They choose to ignore it.
7. Have a plan for managing your diabetes Diabetes makes you special and gives you special needs. Measure your blood sugar before and after the activity. Carry juice, a sports drink, a piece of fruit or glucose tablets. Keep a training log on My Health and record your progress.
8. Listen to your body Starting gradually and being consistent are the secrets to improving your health and fitness, avoiding injury and managing your blood sugar levels. You body will tell you how much . If you can walk and talk without feeling breathless you may step up the speed. Once you feel you cannot talk, then slowdown.
