The Power of Physical Activity in Managing Blood Sugar
Hello there!
I hope this email finds you doing well. This week, I've been focused on practical strategies for better health outcomes, and I wanted to share something that's made a tremendous difference for many clients struggling with blood sugar management — the power of regular physical activity. As a health coach who works with these challenges daily, I've seen firsthand how even small amounts of movement can transform blood sugar control and overall metabolic health. Let me share what works...
With care,
Jerome Puryear, MD
The Power of Physical Activity in Managing Blood Sugar
As your Health and Well-Being Coach, I'm passionate about helping you find practical strategies for improving your health outcomes. Today, I want to focus on one of the most powerful tools we have for managing blood sugar levels: physical activity.
For those living with diabetes or pre-diabetes, regular exercise isn't just a recommendation — it's essential medicine. When you engage in physical activity, your body becomes more sensitive to insulin, which naturally helps lower your blood sugar levels. This improved insulin sensitivity can make a significant difference in your day-to-day management and long-term health outcomes.
But the benefits extend far beyond blood sugar control. Regular movement helps regulate blood pressure, improves sleep quality, enhances cognitive function and memory, and boosts your mood through the release of endorphins — your body's natural feel-good chemicals. In my years of coaching clients, I've witnessed how consistent movement transforms not just physical health, but overall well-being.
Many of my clients initially feel overwhelmed at the prospect of establishing an exercise routine. If that sounds familiar, I want to share some proven strategies that have helped others succeed:
Start small.
Beginning with light exercise and gradually building intensity is the most sustainable approach. Don’t underestimate the power of minor changes — taking the stairs, parking farther away, or doing yard work all count as movement. For some clients, walking up and down the driveway a few times daily was their first successful step toward lowering blood sugar naturally.
Find activities you genuinely enjoy.
Exercise shouldn’t feel like punishment. When you choose movement that brings you joy, you’re more likely to stay consistent. Enjoyment and adherence are key to long-term blood sugar management.
Exercise with a partner.
Accountability dramatically improves consistency. Whether it’s a spouse, friend, neighbor, or a pet who needs walking, having a partner makes physical activity more enjoyable and sustainable.
Set achievable goals.
Realistic, measurable goals help you track progress and maintain motivation. Clients who set clear goals — like walking 15 minutes three times a week or increasing daily step counts — build momentum that improves both confidence and metabolic health.
Staying Safe While Getting Active
As you incorporate more movement into your routine, remember that hydration is essential. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after physical activity, especially if you're managing diabetes. Proper hydration helps maintain steady blood sugar levels and supports physical performance.
For those living with diabetes, it's important to monitor your blood sugar before and after exercise, particularly when starting a new routine. This helps you understand how your body responds to different types of movement and prevents unexpected lows.
Remember: any movement is better than none. Even on days when a full workout isn't possible, finding small opportunities to stay active contributes to better blood sugar management and improved long-term health outcomes.
