Q: My doc says I’m headed for type 2 diabetes if I don’t do something to get in shape. I don’t mind the gym, so what’s the best plan? Fred G., Buffalo, N.Y.
A: We’re glad you asked, Fred. Turns out what you do at the gym can revolutionize your future, preventing the complications associated with diabetes, including heart attack, kidney failure and blindness. Here’s the latest solid data:
1. Weight training for 59 minutes a week slashes diabetes risk by 12 per cent; ramp it up to 149 minutes, and it’s down by 25 per cent. Opt for 150 minutes or more each week, and your risk is cut by 34 per cent.
2. Prefer aerobics? Swimming, treadmill (jogging, walking), stationary bike or taking a 59-minute spin class cuts your risk by 7 per cent; more than an hour, 31 per cent; and 90 minutes, 52 per cent.
3. Put the two together, and fireworks happen! Go for 150 minutes of weights and 150 minutes of aerobics a week, and you can see a 59 per cent drop in your risk for Type 2 diabetes.
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