Different approaches of physical training used in the management of type 2 diabetes

Background Type 2 diabetes is now a common and serious global health problem, which, for most countries, has evolved in association with rapid cultural and social changes, ageing populations, increasing urbanisation, dietary changes, reduced physical activity and other unhealthy lifestyle and behavioural patterns. Aims To identify the different approaches to physical training used in the last decade in the management of type 2 diabetes. Methods We searched PubMed and Science Direct for all randomised clinical trials from 1999 to 30 May 2010. Results We selected 17 randomised controlled trials, five studies with aerobic exercise, five with resistance exercise and seven combined exercise studies. Conclusions The use of resistance training for the treatment of type 2 diabetes is becoming more commonly used in the management of type 2 diabetes. The number of studies using resistance exercise has been growing over the last decade, and has actually become as widely used as the popular aerobic exercise. In turn, most of the reviewed studies have used interventions combining resistance and aerobic exercise. An exercise programme for diabetic patients should be seen as a form of treatment. Hence, there were no established guidelines for the duration of the programme, because exercise should become a habitual daily task, and assumed in a new lifestyle for long-term glucose control.