Effect of Home-based Rehabilitation Program on Cardiorespiratory Fitness Level in Post-COVID-19 Patients with Type II Diabetes Mellitus: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

insulin resistance, which requires elevated insulin production to sustain normal blood glucose levels.It belongs to a cluster of disorders associated with insulin resistance, often accompanied by comorbidities such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, nonalcoholic fatty liver, and polycystic ovarian syndrome. 8Achieving optimal glycemic control is a primary objective for individuals with type 2 diabetes, regardless of whether they are affected by COVID-19 or not.The global rise in the occurrence and prevalence of T2DM IntroductIonAs of 30 th January 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially designated the novel Coronavirus outbreak, named COVID-19, as a worldwide public health emergency. 1COVID-19, caused by coronaviruses, specifically severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 2,3 is recognized for its high contagion and infectious nature.This acute infectious respiratory disease can manifest as severe pneumonia and, in extreme cases, lead to fatality, commanding worldwide attention and concern. 4ccording to the WHO, specific demographic groups, including the elderly and those with preexisting medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease, cancer, and diabetes mellitus, were recognized as particularly vulnerable to severe outcomes.In response to the escalating crisis, governments around the world implemented mandatory "lockdown" measures, significantly restricting physical activity (PA).Consequently, extended periods of inactivity, heightened stress levels, and disruptions in glycemic control emerged as consequences of these restrictions. 5,6COVID-19 is associated with several major comorbidities, among which type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) stands out, significantly elevating the risk of adverse outcomes and mortality. 7ype 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is marked by increased levels of plasma glucose (hyperglycemia), primarily stemming from 1,