Let us get to the good stuff! But first, I must tell you I love sharing products that I have found to add value to my life and help me succeed along this journey. So in this blog post, you will find some links and this is what I need to tell you:
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But getting started can feel overwhelming, especially if you haven’t been active in a while or are living with other health conditions. The good news? You don’t have to do everything at once. The key is to start small, stay consistent, and find types of movement you enjoy.
When you move, your muscles use glucose (sugar) for energy, which helps lower the amount of sugar in your blood. Even a single session of activity can improve your blood sugar for up to 24 hours. Over time, regular physical activity improves insulin sensitivity, meaning your body can use insulin more effectively.
Here are just a few benefits of regular exercise for people with type 2 diabetes:
You don’t need to be an athlete to benefit. In fact, low- to moderate-intensity activity is often ideal, especially if you’re just starting out. I really focus on doing things that I enjoy and things I can do with my family. A simple walk or a bike ride, playing volleyball, pickleball, or even a game of disc golf. It gets us all moving and active, and although it isn’t an intense workout, it is movement.
Walking is one of the easiest and most accessible ways to get active. A 10–30 minute walk after meals helps reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes. It’s gentle on the joints and doesn’t require special equipment.
Building muscle improves how your body handles glucose. It also boosts metabolism and supports bone health. You can start with simple exercises like:
Aim for two sessions per week, targeting major muscle groups. It doesn’t have to be complicated – I look for a quick workout on Pinterest and just repeat a couple of movements targeting one or two areas.
Yoga improves flexibility, reduces stress hormones, and enhances balance. It’s also a gentle way to move your body, making it ideal for beginners or people with limited mobility. Man, a good stretch feels amazing, anytime of the day. I often get out of my chair when I am working and just stretch. It helps relieve stress and clears my mind.
These are great full-body workouts that are easy on joints and reduce impact. They’re ideal for people with arthritis or neuropathy. Swimming with my family is a great workout! Play keep away in a pool with your teenagers, be careful not to get run over, but man, what a workout. Just have fun, it makes being active so much better.
Whether stationary or outdoors, cycling strengthens your legs, boosts cardiovascular health, and burns calories efficiently. It’s another low-impact option that’s great for beginners. I prefer my bike and the outside. I did buy a new bike seat, mine was so uncomfortable, and then I didn’t want to go. So, I found this one on Amazon, and it was a game changer! https://amzn.to/3Z8UOhI
If you enjoy music and movement, dance workouts can be a fun way to stay active. Try online videos, fitness classes, or just turn on your favorite playlist at home.
7. Cleaning House
This may sound funny, but I challenge myself when it is time to get the house in shape. I see how fast I can get it done by just moving faster and working up a sweat. Not only does your house get cleaned faster, but I find that I focus on something other than cleaning house, and that is a definite win! If you are like me and you like to be efficient, here are some of my best friends for house cleaning: https://amzn.to/3FvNNkA – what is this? It is my Tineco, and it is amazing! I vacuum and scrub at the same time! Is it an investment? Yes, it sure is! Is it worth it? yes, it absolutely is! I love it so much! Next up – my Roomba! https://amzn.to/4jq3xU9 – Is there anything better when you are cleaning than hearing a vacuum clean the floor without any help? I don’t think so, we have had this for about 4 years, and I use it a couple of times a week to keep up on the kids and the dog hair! It created efficiency in my routine of maintaining a reasonably clean household of 7-10 people and two dogs. This on top of living in the country with boys who are always working on something and carrying in dirt, and of course, the farm life. And last, but certainly not least, if you have girls with hair, or a wood floor that collects dust and everything else that gets drug in, you need a Dyson, GAME CHANGER! We are all busy, and sometimes you need to tidy up to get through the week without a full house clean. This is your solution! It is quick, holds a long charge, and does a great job! https://amzn.to/3SudmFr
Now, you may be thinking, these all come with a price tag that seems like a lot! What is your sanity and time worth to you? Time is the only thing in this life that we can’t get more of. I don’t like to clean house, but it is necessary. So, why not be more efficient? I have had every single one of these for a long time, and I can say that they are worth every penny. My family would all agree! Invest and gain some time back!
Safety is key, especially if you’re new to exercise or managing complications. Here’s how to ease into a routine safely:
✅ Talk to Your Doctor First
Discuss your exercise plans, especially if you have heart disease, eye complications, nerve pain, or joint problems.
✅ Start Slow and Build Gradually
Begin with 10–15 minutes of light movement, like walking or stretching. Increase duration and intensity over time as you feel comfortable.
✅ Monitor Your Blood Sugar
Check before and after workouts, particularly if you’re on insulin or medication that could cause hypoglycemia. Watch for signs of low blood sugar like dizziness, shaking, or sweating.
✅ Wear Proper Footwear
Foot care is essential for people with diabetes. Choose shoes with good support, and always wear socks. Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters, or sores.
✅ Stay Hydrated and Snack Smart
Drink water before, during, and after exercise. Carry a small carbohydrate-based snack like a banana or glucose tablets in case your blood sugar drops.
✅ Warm Up and Cool Down
Start each session with 5 minutes of gentle movement to warm up your muscles and end with light stretching to avoid stiffness.
Building a new habit takes time—but the rewards are worth it. Here’s how to stay on track:
Day | Activity |
---|---|
Monday | 20-minute walk after dinner |
Tuesday | Gentle yoga or stretching routine |
Wednesday | Bodyweight strength training (15–20 mins) |
Thursday | Light bike ride or walk |
Friday | Rest or casual movement (housework or light stretching) |
Saturday | Join a class or follow an online video workout |
Sunday | Leisure walk or swim outdoors |
This plan provides flexibility and variety while encouraging movement every day in some form.
You don’t have to run marathons or lift heavy weights to get the benefits of exercise. Small steps—literally—add up. A short daily walk, a few strength exercises a couple of times a week, or simply stretching every morning can have a real impact on your blood sugar, your mood, and your overall health.
Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. The most important thing is to keep moving, stay consistent, and listen to your body. Over time, movement will feel more natural, and you’ll begin to experience the rewards of an active lifestyle firsthand.