Q They say certain exercises are good for insulin resistance. Should I do strength training or cardio?
A Doing cardio and strength training together is the most effective. Cardio reduces visceral fat, and strength training makes your muscles use up blood sugar, directly boosting insulin sensitivity.
Detailed Answer
Muscle is the tissue that uses the most blood sugar, so when you increase muscle mass through strength training, blood sugar is used well even without insulin, and sensitivity improves. Adding cardio like brisk walking or cycling reduces visceral fat, so the factors disrupting metabolism disappear along with it. A combination of 30 minutes of cardio 5 times a week plus strength training 2-3 times a week is recommended, and even a light stroll after meals can ease blood sugar spikes.
Our Korean Medicine Clinic's Perspective
In Korean medicine, circulation must come alive for accumulated surplus to be cleared and metabolism to return. At Dongjedang, along with treatment that revives metabolism, we guide an exercise intensity suited to each person's fitness so circulation is lifted without strain. When treatment makes the body lighter, exercise becomes easier, and once you can exercise, weight loss and improved sensitivity push each other in a virtuous cycle.
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