Effects of resistance training on cardiovascular risk factors in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Abstract

Aims: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is prevalent worldwide, often manageable through lifestyle changes like physical activity. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the effect of resistance training (RT) on cardiovascular risk factors in adults with T2DM.

Methods: Four databases were searched up to March 2024. The mean difference (MD) was calculated by a random effect model with 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results: Forty-eight articles were included in the review. There was a significant pooled effect size for the meta-analysis comparing RT vs. control on hemoglobin A1C (MD = -0.49, 95% CI: -0.66, -0.33; P < 0.00001), fasting blood sugar (MD = -11.58, 95% CI: -18.61, -4.55; P = 0.001), insulin (ES = -1.65, 95% CI: -2.87, -0.42; P = 0.008), HOMA-IR (MD = -1.20, 95% CI: -1.85, -0.55; P = 0.0003), triglyceride (MD = -18.14, 95% CI: -30.32, -5.96; P = 0.004), and high-density lipoprotein (MD = 2.71, 95% CI: 0.78, 4.64; P = 0.006). Moreover, RT was effective for reducing body weight (MD = -0.81, 95% CI: -1.50, -0.13; P = 0.02), fat percentage (MD = -0.92, 95% CI: -1.62, -0.22; P = 0.010), and waist circumference (MD = -2.14, 95% CI: -3.00, -1.28; P < 0.00001).

Conclusion: RT effectively improves cardiovascular risk factors in T2DM adults, suggesting potential as treatment or prevention. Future studies can consider investigating the optimal RT regimen to achieve effective T2DM management in adults.