Effect of Cardio Exercise, Resistance Training, or Combined Exercising on Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Type 2 Diabetes Patients

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) complications are among the leading causes of mortality today. Since the two conditions are comorbidities, there are also high chances of them shortening the lives of patients. Despite them being leading causes of mortality, they can be easily controlled by integrating interventions. Strength training and cardio are some of the recommended exercises for the management of these conditions. Cardio exercises are considered effective in reducing body weight, while strength training is considered effective in increasing lean body mass. When combined, a person can enjoy both benefits in improving health. This study was designed to assess the impacts of strength training, aerobic exercises, and a mixture of exercises plus other interventions in managing T2D. In a retrospective study involving 320 patients, the results showed that even though one category of exercise alone had a significant impact in improving the management of the conditions, combined exercises plus other interventions had more positive impacts.