Diabetes and exercise: tips to stay physically active

We’ve all heard about the benefits of exercise. If you miss a day, just jump back into it as soon as possible. Below are 6 tips to help. You can do it!

1. Let’s Get Physical

Choose both aerobic activities (such as walking, biking, or swimming) and strength training workouts (such as light weight lifting or using resistance bands). Partake in activities you enjoy such as dancing, gardening, or kickboxing! No worries if you miss a day or 2, jump back in as soon as you can and share your amazing accomplishments with a friend.

2. Take it Easy as You Get Started

If you’re new to a type of exercise, don’t overdo it. Once you’ve settled into an activity, add time or resistance in order to increase the benefits you’re receiving. TIP: Make sure you have properly fitting shoes, you don’t want unhappy feet.

3. Find a Workout Buddy

Have you considered walking or working out with a friend? Whether in person or virtually, when you exercise with another person you can motivate and encourage each other while enjoying time together.

4. Schedule Your Physical Activity as Appointments

Look at your calendar for the coming week and schedule your workouts as “must-keep” appointments. Perhaps you have a 30-minute window to walk before work on Tuesday and 20 minutes to jump rope on Thursday afternoon. Do whatever works best for you. You don’t have to do it all at once. Breaking exercise into manageable time periods throughout the day can be a good strategy.

5. Keep Track of Your Efforts

Jot down your workout accomplishments and challenges to help figure out where to make necessary adjustments. Not only will tracking help keep you accountable, but it will also help you recognize your progress.

6. Reward Yourself

  • Did you stick to your exercise plan for a week, a month, or more? Congratulations! You deserve a reward
  • Purchase that workout outfit, a new water bottle, or exercise equipment you’ve been wanting
  • Pamper yourself. For example: schedule a massage or a pedicure
  • Treat yourself to a favorite activity, like a concert, sky diving, or a sporting event
  • Spend time on a hobby such as woodworking, photography, or knitting
  • Start or add to a collection every time you reach a milestone

RELATED ARTICLES