Effectiveness of multi-component exercise in individuals with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective This meta-analysis aimed to explore the effects of multi-component exercise interventions on glycemic and lipid metabolism, physical fitness, and cognitive function in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods From inception to December 28, 2024, PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Elsevier databases were systematically searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating multi-component exercise interventions for T2DM. A total of 37 articles, comprising 3,201 participants, were included. Primary and secondary outcome measures were categorized, summarized, and analyzed using RevMan 5.4 software. Results Compared to control groups, multi-component exercise interventions produced statistically significant improvements across all measured outcomes in individuals with T2DM: (1) Glycemic control: HbA1c (standard mean difference (SMD) = −0.52, 95% confidence interval (CI) [−0.76 to −0.28]); fasting blood glucose (SMD = −0.53, 95% CI [−0.93 to −0.12]). (2) Lipid metabolism: high density lipoprotein (HDL) (SMD = 0.32, 95% CI [0.21–0.44]); low density lipoprotein (LDL) (SMD = −0.21, 95% CI [−0.33 to −0.09]); triglycerides (SMD = −0.18, 95% CI [−0.30 to −0.06]). (3) Physical fitness: upper limb strength (SMD = 0.67, 95% CI [0.51–0.83]); lower limb strength (SMD = 0.56, 95% CI [0.10–1.02]); peak oxygen consumption (SMD = 0.62, 95% CI [0.31–0.93]); body mass index (BMI) (SMD = −0.38, 95% CI [−0.67 to −0.09]). (4) Cognitive function: overall cognitive performance (SMD = 0.34, 95% CI [0.18–0.50]). (5) Quality of life: vitality (SMD = 0.37, 95% CI [0.09–0.64]); physical functioning (SMD = 0.48, 95% CI [0.20–0.75]); mental health (SMD = 0.35, 95% CI [0.07–0.63]); general health (SMD = 0.34, 95% CI [0.06–0.61]). Quality assessment indicated that the included studies were of high overall quality. Egger’s regression analysis did not reveal significant publication bias. Conclusions Multi-component exercise interventions significantly improved glycemic and lipid metabolism, physical fitness, and cognitive function in individuals with T2DM. These findings support the clinical value of incorporating multi-component exercise programs—particularly those performed at least three times per week and lasting 6 months or longer—into diabetes management strategies.