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Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed with diabetes or have had the condition for years, it doesn’t have to prevent you from enjoying a healthy, happy life. In fact, there are many things you can do to reduce your symptoms by improving your health. This includes some simple (and affordable) lifestyle adjustments, as well as some health and fitness habits you can implement from the comfort of your own home.
The best way to start improving your symptoms is to commit to maintaining better health. Stick to a healthy diet that limits saturated fats. If you’re overweight, consider going on a weight loss diet. According to the Mayo Clinic, even losing as little as 7% of your overall bodyweight is beneficial in controlling your blood sugar.
A home gym can be a low-stress, convenient, and affordable way to lose weight, stabilize your blood sugar, and get your health back on the right track. If you’re interested in investing in your very own home gym, you really don’t need as much equipment as you might think. This is good news because it means setting up a convenient, at-home gym is relatively easy and affordable.
Whether you’re setting up your first at-home gym or you already have a home gym and want to make more use of it, here are some suggestions:
DUMBBELLS AND KETTLEBELLS
One of the easiest ways to start building your own home gym is by investing in dumbbells and/or kettlebells. These items are readily available and easy to store in your home. Beginners can start with a dumbbell that is light in weight. You can always work your way up as you gradually get stronger.
Those who are in better shape or simply want more strenuous training might consider purchasing a kettlebell. If you’re a beginner, use a kettlebell that is half the weight you’d use in a dumbbell.
YOGA OR PILATES MAT
There have been multiple evidence-based studies showing the benefits of yoga for diabetes treatment. If you don’t feel like attending a yoga class, why not enjoy the benefits from the comfort of your own home? There are many online yoga and Pilates workouts available, some of which are free.
When practicing yoga or Pilates, be sure to cushion your joints by using a mat. A thicker mat is especially important for Pilates, in order to protect your body from pain or even injury.
BASU BALANCE TRAINER
“Bosu” is short for “Both Sides Utilized.” Bosu balance balls, which look like an exercise ball cut in half, train your body to have better balance, strength and stability. Best of all, they can be used in a diverse number of exercises, from targeting your core to making pushups and squats more strenuous.
RESISTANCE BANDS
Resistance bands are the ultimate travel-friendly exercise item. These lightweight, portable, inexpensive bands can be stored just about anywhere, including in your luggage during a business trip or vacation. They provide just enough resistance to let you break a sweat and tone your muscles without the need for dumbbells, kettlebells or free weights.
DOORFRAME PULL-UP BAR
This simple device, which slips over the top lip of your door frame, has completely revitalized my workout routine. It’s surprisingly sturdy, takes very little effort to attach and detach, and is portable enough that you can move it between rooms or bring it with you to a workout buddy’s house. If you’re still learning to do pull-ups and chin-ups, consider investing in the detachable assistance strap that uses your bodyweight to help you pull yourself up.
Even if you’ve already been diagnosed with diabetes, it’s never too late to start making healthier choices. By investing in some home fitness equipment and making some lifestyle adjustments, you’ll be on your way to living a healthier life with fewer symptoms.
About the author:
Lindsay loves cooking, biking and photography. She is married to her high school sweetheart and has twin girls. Her mission is aligned with that of Public Health Corps, which is to provide reputable and useful public information on health topics.