Many patients with diabetes worry about getting limb problems—some that can result in amputation—due to lack of muscle strength or exercise. When bodies remain stationary for lengthy periods of time, this can occur; in fact, 60% of U.S. amputations can be attributed to the disease. And while some drugs can help lower the risk, the real preventative measure that all people can take is exercise.

Building muscle through exercise helps reduce amputation risk as well as help patients control their weight—which also lower blood sugar. These are all huge health benefits for diabetic patients. It can also help lower your risk of heart disease, which is also common in people with diabetes.

Exercise can also help…

• Lower blood pressure
• Increase bone density
• Lower cholesterol
• Increase energy
• Improve circulation
• Promote relaxation and reduce stress

With all of these benefits, it’s easy to see why so many doctors recommend regular exercise! And while it’s also easy to see why most of us don’t do the suggested sixty minutes of physical activity a day in today’s fast-paced, busy world, the benefits of exercise certainly outweigh neglecting physical fitness. Think about it—you sleep, eat, brush your teeth, floss, and bathe for your health each day. Why not exercise?

Once you make the choice to begin, you might be thinking about where to start. Though walking is generally considered a safe exercise to start with, any patient with diabetes should first consult with a physician before embarking on any new exercise regimen. Depending on other health conditions, body type and size, and other risk factors, certain exercises may be out of the question until a future date.

Any exercise program should first begin slowly. While jumping right in may sound like a surefire way to lose weight and get in shape quick, it’s actually a good way to get hurt—either by an injury, heart problem, or other accident. Progress slowly, gradually working your way toward your goal.

Aerobic exercise is often recommended for a healthy heart and weight control. Patients may be advised to simply walk, or to try dancing, biking, swimming, jogging or rowing.

Your workout should start with a warm-up and end with a cool-down. These stretches will help protect your body against injuries and accidents. Be sure to keep a glass of water handy—as well as a glucose source if you are at risk of hypoglycemia—and enlist the help of a good friend to make it more fun.