Everybody benefits from regular exercise. In diabetes it plays an important role in keeping you healthy.

• It helps insulin to work better which will improve your diabetes control

• It can help you control your weight

• It can help lower your blood pressure

• It can reduce your risk of heart disease

• It can help reduce stress.

This depends on what you enjoy and your level of fitness. Here are some suggestions:

• Walking

• Swimming

• Dancing

• Water aerobics

• Gardening

• Golf

• Cycling

• Exercise bike

• Walking machine

Increasing your general physical activity is also helpful. eg. taking the stairs instead of the lift, getting up to change the TV station instead of using the remote control, housework etc.

Ideally, about 30 minutes everyday. If this is not possible, then this time can be divided in 3x10 minutes sessions.

You do not need to puff to gain the benefits of exercise. Aim for moderate intensity. This means you should still be able to talk as you exercise without becoming breathless.

Before commencing a regular exercise program, see your doctor for a full medical examination. This is especially important if you have any complication of diabetes.

Commence exercising gradually. Start with 5-10 minutes and slowly build up to 30 minutes.