[Physical exercise as treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus]

The beneficial role of physical exercise on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus has been confirmed by several controlled trials including both aerobic and resistance exercise protocols. Exercise has been shown to increase insulin sensitivity, lower blood sugar levels, reduce body fat and improve physical fitness. Grade A scientific evidence has been assigned to the effect of regular physical activity on glycemic control for both endurance and resistance exercise.The recommendations for endurance exercise are: aerobic physical activity of moderate intensity (40-60% of VO(2)max or 50-70% of maximum heart rate) for at least 150 min/week and/or at least 90 min/week of vigorous aerobic exercise (> 60% of VO(2)max or > 70% of maximum heart rate). The physical activity should be distributed over at least 3 days/week and with no more than 2 consecutive days without physical activity. The recommendations for resistance exercise are: resistance exercise should be performed at least 3 times a week, including all major muscle groups, progressing to 3 sets of 8-10 repetitions at a weight that cannot be lifted > 8-10 times.