4 min readNew DelhiJun 3, 2026 04:56 PM IST<\/p>\n
Fitness trainer Ritik Chaudhary recently drew attention online after claiming in an Instagram video that \u201csimple leg exercises for diabetic patients\u201d could help burn \u201cup to 52% blood sugar.\u201d The video showcased a series of lower-body movements to improve glucose control and encourage daily physical activity among people with diabetes. But do these really help?<\/p>\n
Exercise is widely recognised as an important part of diabetes management, according to fitness trainer Pradeep Gill from Equilibrium Gym, and exercises involving large muscle groups, especially the legs, can indeed increase glucose uptake.<\/p>\n
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\u201cRegular exercise, which involves large muscles such as the legs, can increase glucose uptake significantly,\u201d Gill explained. \u201cWhen it comes to lower-body exercises, the leg muscles will burn blood sugar for fuel.\u201d<\/p>\n
DISCLAIMER:\u00a0This article is based on information from the public domain and\/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.<\/p>\n
However, he clarified that the claim about \u201cburning 52% of blood glucose\u201d through a single set of exercises is likely exaggerated.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe statement that 52% of blood glucose will be burned from a single set of leg exercises is probably an exaggeration and has not been scientifically verified,\u201d Gill said. \u201cLeg exercises will have a different impact on an individual based on workout history, fitness level, muscle development, diabetes control, nutritional status, and exercise effort.\u201d<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Why are leg exercises recommended for diabetics<\/p>\n \u201cLeg exercises are often suggested for people with diabetes because of the size of the leg muscles, as they absorb a significant amount of glucose during activity and improve the body\u2019s response to insulin,\u201d Gill explained.<\/p>\n He added that consistent movement is more important than intense or exhausting workouts.<\/p>\n Story continues below this ad<\/p>\n Which exercises are considered safe and effective?<\/p>\n Gill recommended several lower-body exercises that are generally considered safe, accessible, and beneficial for people managing diabetes.<\/p>\n These include:<\/p>\n \u201cThese exercises help engage major muscle groups without putting excessive stress on the body,\u201d Gill said. \u201cEven short daily routines can contribute positively to blood sugar control when done consistently.\u201d Walking, in particular, is often recommended because it is easy to sustain and can be adapted to different fitness levels.<\/p>\n Can exercise reduce dependence on medication?<\/p>\n Gill said incorporating even brief daily exercise sessions into one\u2019s lifestyle can improve glucose control over time. \u201cRegular movement of the body improves the use of glucose, decreases insulin resistance, helps with weight control, and contributes positively to cardiovascular health and overall fitness,\u201d he explained.<\/p>\n In some cases, especially among individuals with early Type 2 diabetes, sustained lifestyle changes may reduce the need for medication. \u201cPatients with early Type 2 diabetes who maintain consistent lifestyle changes may see reduced dependence on medication over time,\u201d Gill said. \u201cHowever, these changes should always be monitored by a healthcare provider.\u201d<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Story continues below this ad<\/p>\n DISCLAIMER:\u00a0This article is based on information from the public domain and\/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n<\/blockquote>\n
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