Move More
Diabetes Support Group Meeting Highlights
September 18, 2007
Marnie Harrington, exercise physiologist at Sauk Prairie Memorial Hospital,
spoke to the Diabetes Support Group on Tuesday, September 18. She started the
meeting by asking those present what they were currently doing to keep physically
active. Everyone has different preferences, but it was important to identify
something you like to do.
Marnie identified the following as benefits of exercise:
- Burns calories
- Helps to lower blood sugars
- Helps weight control
- Makes us feel better
- Improves energy
- Helps in stress management
- Maintains healthy bones and joints
- Can improve blood pressure
Marnie defined exercise as anything that will increase your heart rate, but
did differentiate between housework and exercise. She suggested that we each
start with 5 minutes daily and progress from there at a comfortable pace with
a goal being 30 minutes daily. Ideally, we should exercise daily, but encouraged
that we at least do 30 minutes of exercise three times a week.
The best time to exercise is 60-90 minutes after eating. Marnie led the group
through some basic walking stretches and stated that flexibility and stretching
were components of total fitness. In our community, there are various options
for activities including pool facilities, fitness clubs, plus walking at the
community center and at the local schools (when school is in session).
Marnie encouraged those present to check with their provider before starting
a fitness program. Having a partner to exercise with sometimes makes it easier,
plus putting it on the calendar might make it more likely to happen. For those
with diabetes, she recommended that they initially test sugars before exercise,
halfway through exercise and after exercise, so they become familiar with what
effect activity has on their blood sugar levels.
In conclusion, Marnie asked all members present to identify the benefits
of exercise for themselves and challenged them to set a goal to work towards.
Physical activity is intended to be part of our daily life. Make it part of
yours.
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