Resistance training in the treatment of diabetes mellitus II: a narrative review

Abstract

Diabetes Mellitus is defined as a condition in which glucose levels in the bloodstream are present in high concentrations. Type II Diabetes Mellitus (DMT2) is the most common and develops in the long term, being mainly associated with the individual's lifestyle. It is characterized by the cellular situation of insulin resistance, and treatment is recommended through pharmacological, nutritional, and resources and regular exercise. Therefore, the objective of the study was to review the literature on the influences of the practice of Resistance Training (RT) in patients with Diabetes Mellitus Type II. The increase in the activation of the AMPK pathway induced by muscle contraction seems to be the most important mechanism of action since there is an increase in the translocation of GLUT4 to the cell membrane, which allows a greater uptake of glucose from the bloodstream in an insulin-independent manner, establishing a balance in glucose levels. RT, in addition to promoting serum glucose homeostasis, also reduces the risk factors for the disease, thus becoming an effective strategy for the prevention and treatment of T2DM.