The Role of Resistance Training in Modulating Insulin Resistance: A Narrative Review

Introduction: Insulin resistance (IR) is a key feature in the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and a major contributor to metabolic dysfunction, with skeletal muscle being the primary site of insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. Resistance training (RT) has been shown to influence multiple mechanisms that improve insulin sensitivity, including increased muscle perfusion, enhanced muscle mass, activation of IRS‑1/PI3K/Akt and AMPK/PGC‑1α pathways, and promotion of GLUT4 translocation. RT may also alter muscle fiber composition and induce the release of myokines such as IL‑6, irisin, and BDNF, which participate in the regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism and inflammation. Intervention studies report improvements in insulin sensitivity, glycemic control, and metabolic markers across different populations. This narrative review summarizes current evidence on how RT affects skeletal muscle insulin resistance and related metabolic adaptations. Methods: A literature review was written using databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar and the official WHO website. The research was conducted using articles available as of March 2026. Conclusions: Resistance training improves insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle through enhanced perfusion, muscle hypertrophy, GLUT4 translocation, and activation of key signaling pathways. It may also modify muscle fiber composition and stimulate myokine release. Overall, RT consistently supports metabolic health and is a useful strategy for managing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.