Make Diabetes Manageable: Finding The Fun in Exercise.

Hey there, diabetes warriors! If you’ve had diabetes for any length of time, you know that exercise is a key player in managing your blood sugar levels. But let’s be real: if the thought of exercise feels like a chore, you’re less likely to stick with it for long. Good news, though! Finding fun, affordable exercises that fit into your lifestyle can make a world of difference. So, let’s get you moving in an enjoyable and budget-friendly way. Ready? Let’s get started!

#1. Discover What Makes You Smile

First, exercise should be something you look forward to, not dread. Here’s how to find activities that make you grin:

Try Everything: You wouldn’t order the same dish at a restaurant every time, so why stick to just one type of exercise? Sample different activities like dancing, swimming, or even hula hooping. You might find joy in an unexpected place! Make a list (somewhere you will remember it) of the physical activities you have seen that look like fun. Then, just like signing a kid up for ice skating lessons for six weeks, sign up your inner kid for the new activity. If you suck at first, remember learning is part of the fun!

Group Fun: Join a class or group activity. Sometimes, the camaraderie of a group can make any workout more enjoyable. Whether it’s a local yoga class or a weekly walking group, the social aspect can add a spark of fun. Enjoyment can be contagious. If you aren’t a fan of meeting new people, bring a friend with you so you have someone you feel comfortable with. Bonus points if the friend is outgoing.

Incorporate Hobbies: Do you love gardening or playing with your dog? Incorporate these into your exercise routine. Gardening can be a fantastic workout, and playing fetch can get your heart rate up! If you love teaching your dog a new trick, maybe look for activities you can do together, like obstacles or nose work classes.

# 2. Keep It Wallet-Friendly

Who says staying fit must cost a fortune? Here’s how to stay active without splurging:

Home Workouts: No gym? No problem! Bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups are free and effective. Plus, there are tons of free workout videos online. From yoga to high-intensity interval training (HIIT), the internet is your playground.

DIY Equipment: Get creative with household items. A chair (one without wheels) can serve as a step for step-ups, a towel can double as a resistance band, and water bottles or milk jugs can work as weights. Using items you already have saves money and adds a touch of inventiveness to your workout. MacGyver it up!

Outdoor Adventures: Parks and trails are free and offer a variety of terrains for walking or running. Many even have paved trails, which is great for those with neuropathy. Try out local parks for a refreshing change of scenery. Nature can be a great motivator! Bonus points if you take a dog or a friend with you!

# 3. Embrace Versatility:

No matter what kind of equipment you have (or don’t have), there are plenty of ways to get your exercise in:

Minimal Gear: Even with just a yoga mat, you can practice stretching, core exercises, or a whole yoga routine. Invest in a set of dumbbells or a resistance band to expand your options, but they’re not necessary to get started. You may want to check with your insurance company about getting these for free from them, especially if you have Medicare.

Basic Equipment: If you have a little more gear, like a jump rope or a stability ball, use them to add variety. Jump ropes are great for cardio, and stability balls can enhance strength and balance workouts. There are also stability pads to help work on balance at home.

Tech-Savvy Workouts: Fitness apps and online programs can guide you through workouts with minimal equipment. Some apps even offer custom workout plans based on what you have at home. If you don’t know where to start, check out YouTube; there are great ones there. If you have small kids, there are also great workouts to do with them. Get your physical activity in and wear out the little ones. Bonus!

# 4. Make It a Habit

Lastly, consistency is key. Here are a few tips to help you stick with your new routine:

Set Goals: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them. Whether walking for 10 minutes a day or mastering a new yoga pose, celebrate each milestone! Check out our Goal-Setting guide to help you make achievable goals.

Track Progress: Keep a fun workout journal or use a fitness app to track your progress. Seeing your improvements over time can be incredibly motivating. Check out our Goal Empowerment Log or Printable logs to help you stay on track. Our courses come with our customizable tracking portal if you prefer an online tracker.

Mix It Up: Keep things interesting by varying your routine. Switching between cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises keeps your workouts fresh and exciting.

So, there you have it—tips to make exercising with diabetes fun and economical. Remember, the best exercise is the one you enjoy and can stick with. Whether you’re dancing in your living room, hiking in nature, or lifting heavy things around your house, every bit of movement helps. Let’s lace up those sneakers, dance shoes, or fins, and let’s get moving toward a healthier, happier you!

Stay active, stay happy, stay healthy.