Weight Training For Heart Health
Just one session of weight training may help improve blood vessel function, particularly in people with type 2 diabetes. Blood vessel function is an indicator of heart health and can be used to determine the risk of heart attack. Researchers at the University of British Columbia reported improved functioning in all 35 participants in a study testing the effects of weight training. The investigation included 12 adults with type 2 diabetes, 12 non-exercisers and 11 participants without diabetes who exercised regularly. They all participated in a 20-minute exercise routine consisting of a warm-up and seven one-minute high intensity intervals during which they completed leg presses, leg extensions and leg lifts with a one-minute rest between each interval. They also performed intervals of high intensity aerobic exercise on stationary bikes. Positive effects in blood vessel function were observed in all three groups. Study leader Jonathan Little, an assistant professor in the School of Health and Exercise Sciences, suggested that with further study the resistance training findings could provide “a new safe and cost-effective tool” to help people with type 2 diabetes manage their disease.
Source:
Jonathan P. Little et al, “Resistance-based interval exercise acutely improves endothelial function in type 2 diabetes.” American Journal of Physiology – Heart and Circulatory Physiology, November 1, 2016; DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00398.2016
Also in this week’s bulletin:
