When you are first diagnosed with type two diabetes the lifestyle changes you’ll need to make can seem staggering. It can be really difficult to transition to what, if you’re anything like me, probably isn’t the healthiest lifestyle to one more in synch with your new needs. Though it will be overwhelming at first, you’ll get used to the new way of living and before you know it you will be the envy of all your friends. Eating healthy and exercising regularly isn’t just good for your diabetes it’s good for your wellness in general, you’ll be much healthier and because of that you’re less likely to experience other complications.
Though exercise will do you a great deal of good in the long run, overdoing it can be as damaging as the right amount would be healthy. We’ve compiled a short list of things you can do to make sure you get the most out of your exercise without hurting yourself in the process.
Don’t forget to warm up!
Make sure to stretch out your muscles before you start, the last thing you want is aches and pains brought on by your exercise. Start slow and build up to a longer routine, remember that it’ll take you time until you can handle more exercise and knowing your limits will help you get the most from your activities.
Drink it Down!
Hydration is very important for us to function at full capacity, without it we become sluggish and irritable. This is especially important during exercise as it can leave us dehydrated. Have a glass of water around half an hour before you get started and remember to keep a bottle of water on your person while you’re exercising so you can keep sipping all the way through! It’s easy to forget this, so write yourself a note if you find yourself ignoring your hydration!
Warm Up to Cool Down
Before every lifting session, warm up, cool down, and stretch. Easing into (and out of) a workout gives your body time to transition. Warm-ups and cooldowns should last 5 to 10 minutes, and all stretching should avoid bouncy movements to keep muscle fibres limber, lithe, and injury-free.
Drink Up
Drink fluids before, during, and after your session. Most experts suggest you drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day as part of a healthy lifestyle. Drink one of those glasses 30 minutes or so before your weight workout and carry a water bottle so you can keep sipping — even if you don’t feel thirsty — during your routine. If you wait until you feel thirsty, it’s too late, because your body’s already craving extra liquid.
Involve Your Family
Resistance training is good for everyone. Invite your partner and children to join your weight-lifting program. Remember that younger children should not use resistance-training equipment — weights or machines — without adult supervision.
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