Exercise training modalities in prediabetes: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology and Metabolism
• Exercise Physiology
• Preventive Cardiology

Background:

• Lifestyle modification, particularly exercise, is crucial for delaying or reversing prediabetes.
• Challenges exist in creating precise exercise prescriptions for individuals with prediabetes.
• This study aimed to rank exercise interventions based on their effectiveness in improving glucose/lipid metabolism and promoting weight loss.

Approach:

• A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on exercise intervention in prediabetes.
• Searched five electronic databases to identify relevant studies.
• Included 24 studies with 1946 prediabetes patients and seven distinct exercise intervention models.

Key Points:

• Any form of exercise improved glycemic control in prediabetes compared to no exercise, though changes were moderate.
• Combined moderate-intensity aerobic exercise and low-to-moderate resistance training yielded the most significant improvements in HbA1c, BMI, body weight, total cholesterol, and LDL.
• Low-to-moderate resistance training was most effective for fasting blood glucose (FBG); vigorous aerobic exercise for 2-hour post-meal blood glucose (2hPG) and systolic blood pressure (SBP); moderate aerobic exercise for diastolic blood pressure (DBP).

Conclusions:

• Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, resistance training, or a combination thereof, positively impacts glycemic control, weight management, and cardiovascular health in prediabetes.
• These findings offer practical guidance for clinicians and patients in developing effective exercise strategies for prediabetes.
• Optimizing exercise prescriptions can enhance patient outcomes and support diabetes prevention efforts.