Abstract

Background: Type-2 diabetes is a major health challenge, requiring effective interventions for glycemic and metabolic control. Structured physical activity offers a promising non-pharmacological approach to improving these outcomes.
Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of structured physical activity on glycemic control and metabolic outcomes in patients with Type-2 diabetes (T2D).
Methods: This randomized controlled trial included 200 adult patients with T2D, randomly assigned to one of three groups: structured exercise once a week, thrice a week or usual care. Participants followed for 6 months and exercise interventions were combined aerobic and resistance training. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and fasting glucose the primary while Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference and lipid profiles were secondary outcomes
Results: HbA1c was reduced significantly more in the thrice-weekly exercise group (-0.38%, p = 0.005) than in the once week group (-0.16%, p > 0.05) or control group. Changes in the once weekly group were not significant, whereas the thrice weekly group’s fasting glucose levels improved significantly (-0.25%, p < 0.05). BMI and lipid profile improvements were also more pronounced in the thrice weekly group with greater reductions in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol compared to other groups.
Conclusion: Thrice-weekly structured exercise significantly improves glycemic control and metabolic outcomes in T2D compared to once-weekly regimens, highlighting the importance of exercise frequency. Future research should focus on strategies to enhance adherence to frequent exercise programs.