Resistance Training for Prediabetes

This trial explores how varying levels of effort in resistance training (a type of exercise focused on building muscle strength) affect blood sugar control and mental health in individuals with prediabetes. Participants will engage in either high-effort workouts (3 sets of 8 repetitions) or low-effort workouts (6 sets of 4 repetitions) to determine which is more beneficial. It is ideal for those with prediabetes, where blood sugar is slightly elevated but not at diabetes levels, and who are not taking metformin or have specific health issues like severe heart problems or recent surgeries. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to understanding the effects of exercise on prediabetes.

The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you have been on certain medications like metformin for less than 3 months or have taken drugs that increase the risk of tendon disorders in the last 6 months.

Research has shown that resistance training is generally safe and well-tolerated. Studies have found that it helps manage blood sugar levels and improves insulin use, particularly in people with type 2 diabetes. These studies reported no major negative side effects from resistance training. Instead, it proved to be an effective and safe method for diabetes prevention. This suggests that various styles of resistance training, whether high-effort or low-effort, are likely safe for most people.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about resistance training for prediabetes because it offers a non-pharmaceutical approach that may improve blood sugar control and overall health. Unlike standard treatments like lifestyle changes or medications such as metformin, this method focuses on structured physical activity. The trial is exploring different resistance training intensities—high-effort and low-effort protocols—to determine the most effective exercise strategy. This approach could empower individuals to manage prediabetes through tailored exercise routines, potentially reducing reliance on medication and enhancing long-term health outcomes.

Research has shown that resistance training effectively manages blood sugar levels, particularly in individuals with prediabetes. A review of several studies found that exercise, including resistance training, controls blood sugar better than inactivity. Other studies indicate that resistance training improves the body's sugar management and lowers HbA1c levels, an important measure of blood sugar over time. This trial will compare two resistance training protocols: a high-effort protocol and a low-effort protocol. Both exercise types aim to increase muscle strength and lean body mass, which can help prevent diabetes. Overall, resistance training offers a promising method to manage or even prevent diabetes by maintaining blood sugar levels.¹²³⁶⁷