Active Living
We all need regular exercise—and it's even
more important when you have diabetes
Regular exercise has been shown to improve
blood sugar control, reduce cardiovascular risk factors,
contribute to weight loss, and improve well-being.
Whether you’re a couch potato,
you already have an exercise routine,
or you’re somewhere in between,
this section will offer a variety
of new tools and ideas to get moving.
Always check with your doctor
before starting an exercise program.
Grocery shopping, taking the stairs, a walk around the neighborhood.
They can all count toward your goal of staying active.
Exercise has some amazing health benefits.
But even more amazing is that you don’t need to be a
hard-core athlete to enjoy the benefits of fitness.
Try to do a total of about 30 minutes of aerobic exercise,
such as brisk walking, most days of the week.
If you’re just starting out, start with 5 to 10 minutes a day
and gradually add more time.
Always talk to your doctor before beginning any exercise program.
Exercising All Year
Spring
The sun’s up early. And it stays up longer. Each day you get a little more daylight to enjoy all your favorite activities.- Put a spring in your step. Celebrate spring's arrival. Enjoy outdoor events where you're surrounded by nature.
- Plant yourself in the garden. Grow some vegetables. Pick a sunny spot that's easy to water. Turn over the soil, remove grass and weeds, and sow your seeds.
- Take a day trip. But choose something active. Biking, hiking, canoeing—you pick!
Summer
Summer's upon us. The temperature is rising. And the breeze is warm and inviting.- Make a splash! Dive into summer. Head to the local swimming pool. Do a few laps or some water aerobics.
- Play ball! Or toss a Frisbee® instead. Head to the park with a pal or play catch in the backyard.
- Beat the heat. Take a walk around the local mall. It's free and air conditioned for those days that are too hot to be outdoors.
Fall
Autumn is here. The air is crisp. And the leaves are bright orange and yellow.- Pick a winner. Walk the grounds at your local orchard or pumpkin patch. Then head home with your fresh pick of the day.
- Go long! Forget the football game on TV. Show off your skills in a backyard game of catch with friends or family.
Winter
Nothing to do but cozy up with a book? No way! Winter has lots of ways to keep you active.- Keep it cheerful. ‘Tis the season for holiday cheer. Grab your hat and take a walk. You may forget it's exercise.
- Do the mall crawl. Take a few laps around the mall. Start your holiday shopping and get in some walking.
- Exercise your passion. Collect pinecones and boughs. Make a wreath. All that walking, stretching, and reaching can help increase your activity level.
WALKING
A year around exercise.
Whether it is a long walk through your neighborhood,
maybe to the post office or grocery store.
Rain or shine, once you take the first steps, it gets easier and more enjoyable.
Take a different route so you can enjoy a new view.
On days when the weather is cooperating, find an indoor shopping mall.
Many malls have walking groups that meet before opening hours.
You'll get your exercise, walk with a fun group and maybe make a new friend.
Ensure that you have a good podiatrist so your feet stay healthy.
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