The Relative Benefits of Endurance and Strength Training on the Metabolic Factors and Muscle Function of People With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Cauza E, Hanusch-Enserer U, Strasser B, Ludvik B, Metz-Schimmerl S, Pacini G, Wagner O, Georg P, Prager R, Kostner K, Dunky A, Haber P. The relative benefits of endurance and strength training on the metabolic factors and muscle function of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. To compare the effects of a 4-month strength training (ST) versus aerobic endurance training (ET) program on metabolic control, muscle strength, and cardiovascular endurance in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). Randomized controlled trial. Large public tertiary hospital. Twenty-two T2D participants (11 men, 11 women; mean age ± standard error, 56.2±1.1y; diabetes duration, 8.8±3.5y) were randomized into a 4-month ST program and 17 T2D participants (9 men, 8 women; mean age, 57.9±1.4y; diabetes duration, 9.2±1.7y) into a 4-month ET program. ST (up to 6 sets per muscle group per week) and ET (with an intensity of maximal oxygen consumption of 60% and a volume beginning at 15min and advancing to a maximum of 30min 3×/wk) for 4 months. Laboratory tests included determinations of blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (Hb A 1c), insulin, and lipid assays. A significant decline in Hb A 1c was only observed in the ST group (8.3%±1.7% to 7.1%±0.2%, P=.001). Blood glucose (204±16mg/dL to 147±8mg/dL, P