Moving in the right direction: Exploring the benefits of aerobic exercise in patients with recently elevated HbA1c levels

Abstract

Regular exercise is recognized as having health advantages for all individuals, including enhancements in glycemic control, insulin efficacy, cardiovascular fitness, systemic inflammation, diabetes-related health concerns, and mental well-being. This study aimed to explore aerobic exercise benefits on patients with recently elevated HbA1c levels. A parallel, randomized controlled trial was conducted. A total of 60 participants were assigned to one of the two groups: The aerobic exercise (AE) Group and the Control group. Assessment included HbA1c (glycosylated hemoglobin), post-prandial blood sugar (PPBS) as well as fasting blood sugar (FBS) at baseline (at 0 weeks before the training) and after the 12 weeks (post-training). The results showed that in 12 weeks, there was a statistically substantial difference in the two groups' mean values of HbA1c, PPBS, as well as FBS (p<0.001). Current research findings indicate that a 12-week protocol of aerobic exercise may serve as an essential therapeutic approach for achieving glycemic control in patients with recently elevated HbA1c levels.