In my opinion, the more we improve our circulatory system – which is responsible for the blood flowing through our bodies – the better will be our overall health. One of the main functions of this precious liquid in our bodies is to transport oxygen and important nutrients to vital organs and to flush out waste. If this process is working efficiently then our bodies will function the way it’s meant to.
One of the best ways to improve circulation is to engage in high intensity interval training. It will increase your heart rate and speed up weight loss as a byproduct. I have been doing this type of workout and I can say without a doubt that it has been a life saver for me. It has been my main weapon in helping to prevent pre-diabetes from affecting me.
The following article highlights a study which points out two major the benefits of intense exercises.
Short, Intense Workouts Help Reverse
Diabetes: Study
(Copyright AP)
New research suggests that short bouts of high-intensity exercise could help reverse some early cardiac changes in people with type 2 diabetes.
“Interestingly, the data also suggest that this type of high-intensity intermittent exercise benefits both the heart and diabetes control, but the benefits appear to be greatest in the heart,” explained the study authors, led by Michael Trenell and Dr. Sophie Cassidy from Newcastle University in the United Kingdom.
It’s well known that type 2 diabetes can affect the structure and function of the heart long before patients develop symptoms of heart disease, and that being physically active can help people manage their condition, the researchers said in a university news release.
For the study, the investigators tested the impact that repeated short bursts of intense cycling would have on type 2 diabetes and the heart.
The study included 23 type 2 diabetes patients, aged 45 to 71. Twelve men and women were randomly assigned to complete 12 weeks of intermittent high-intensity exercise, while 11 others continued standard treatment.
The bouts of exercise, which lasted up to 90 seconds, raised the heart rate more than longer periods of less rigorous activity, the findings showed.
The participants’ heart structure and function were assessed using advanced imaging technology. The volunteers also underwent glucose tolerance tests to determine how well they had their diabetes under control, the study authors said.
High-intensity intermittent exercise significantly improved the participants’ heart structure and function, according to the report published Sept. 9 in the journal Diabetologia.
These bouts of activity were particularly beneficial for the left ventricle, which is the heart’s main pump. This chamber of the heart became stronger and more efficient following the high-intensity exercise.
Meanwhile, the exercise resulted in a small improvement in diabetes control, the study authors said in a university news release.
“The strong positive effect of exercise on the heart is, although completely logical, a message that needs to be communicated to people with type 2 diabetes more clearly,” the researchers suggested.
“The data reinforce how important a physically active lifestyle is for people with type 2 diabetes,” the authors concluded. “Our findings also suggest that exercise does not have to be 30 minutes of continuous exercise — repeated short bouts of higher intensity exercise give strong benefits to the heart. Getting more physically active is, quite literally, at the heart of good diabetes control.”
Original post can found here
PS. Before starting any exercise program it’s important to get your doctors clearance. She can assess your condition and recommend an activity to improve your condition.
PPS. A good place to get information on workouts specifically geared to diabetics is How to Prevent Pre-diabetes. Visit them here.