Effect of supervised nordic walking on glycemic control and maximal aerobic capacity in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Purpose

Amidst the global diabetes crisis, Europe faces mortality and prevalence rates of 10-12%, as reported by the World Health Organisation. The COVID-19 pandemic worsened metabolic concerns, particularly in India. This study delves into the unexplored impact of type 2 diabetes on individuals with a normal BMI, examining the efficacy of supervised nordic walking in improving glycemic control and aerobic capacity compared to standard activity and diet control.

Materials and Methods

A parallel arm superiority randomised controlled trial enrolled 70 participants (aged 40–65) with type 2 diabetes and BMI <25 kg/m². The intervention group (n = 35) received 4 weeks of Nordic walking alongside conventional treatment, while the control group (n = 35) received only conventional treatment. Key outcomes included glycated haemoglobin levels, maximum oxygen uptake, and rate of perceived exertion.

Results

The intervention group exhibited a substantial decrease in glycated haemoglobin (mean difference: 0.58, p < 0.001) compared to the control group, which showed minimal changes (mean difference: 0.09, p > 0.05). Additionally, the intervention group demonstrated significant enhancements in maximal oxygen uptake (p < 0.001) and distance walked (mean difference: 56.74, p < 0.001), whereas the control group experienced minimal alterations. Rate of perceived exertion showed no significant changes in either group.

Conclusion

Supervised Nordic walking demonstrated notable enhancements in glycemic control and aerobic capacity in individuals with type 2 diabetes and a normal BMI.

Keywords:

• Nordic walking
• type 2 diabetes
• blood glucose control
• maximum aerobic capacity
• incremental shuttle walk test

Acknowledgement

We are grateful for the cooperation and aid extended by the entire Cardiovascular and Respiratory Department of Physiotherapy staff members, Additionally, we extend our thanks to Mr. Upendra Joshi and Apollo Diagnostics Laboratory for their consistent support throughout this research work.

Ethical approval

The study was approved by the Institutional ethical committee (MGM/IOP/2022/IEC/06) and registered to ClinicalTrials.gov website (registration number: CTRI/2022/12/048402).

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest is reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

There is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.