Resistance training and type 2 diabetes - Considerations for implementation at the population level

There is now suggestive evidence supporting the use of resistance training for improving glycemic control and insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetes. However, the majority of studies have used individually supervised training sessions, where participants have been advised on exercise technique, prescription, and suitable progression. The current evidence is that small resistance training efficacy studies may not have applicability or generalizability at the population level for those living with type 2 diabetes. There is now a definite need for larger, population-based efficacy and effectiveness studies that address the feasibility of resistance training on a broader level. Such research should be theoretically driven and should strive to be costeffective, feasible in a variety of settings, and effective over the long term, while reaching a large proportion of the relevant population. For success, it is important that a coordinated interdisciplinary approach involving academics, governments, health care organizations, practitioners, and the public should be taken to promote resistance training behavior from the clinical to populationbased settings. © 2006 by the American Diabetes Association.