Adherence
Using an activity tracker (Fitbit) combined with kinesiologist-led physical activity promotion significantly increases physical activity levels and improves specific cardiometabolic risk variables (HDL cholesterol, BMI, waist circumference) in patients with type 2 diabetes compared to kinesiologist-led promotion alone.
For a patient with Type 2 Diabetes, using a simple activity tracker like a Fitbit alongside a structured exercise plan guided by a health professional (like a kinesiologist) is more effective for improving heart health markers (like HDL cholesterol) and reducing waist size than just following the exercise plan alone. The key is using the tracker to stay motivated and adhere to the 150 minutes of moderate activity per week recommended by your provider.
PA assessed by questionnaires increased in both groups, change being greater in the intervention group (P<0.05)... High-density lipoprotein cholesterol increased in the intervention group and decreased in the control group (P=0.014)... Significant correlations were observed between average steps per day and changes in waist circumference... body mass index... and fat percentage... in the intervention group.
Why this rating
It is a randomized controlled pilot trial, but the sample size is small (n=30, 11 completed per group), limiting statistical power and generalizability.
Source
Using an activity tracker to increase motivation for physical activity in patients with type 2 diabetes in primary care: a randomized pilot trial
Cynthia Pelletier et al. · mHealth · 2021
DOI 10.21037/mhealth-20-154
Related findings · Adherence
- Regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes/week of moderate-intensity) reduces all-cause and cardiovascular mortality by 20-30% and lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes by 25-35%.Strong
- Increasing physical activity from a sedentary lifestyle to an active one in middle adulthood significantly reduces the risk of coronary events compared to remaining sedentary.Strong
- Resistance exercise is the only intervention capable of consistently restoring muscle function and strength in sarcopenia, partially overcoming age-related anabolic resistance.Strong
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