Weightlifting Outperforms Running in Combating Type 2 Diabetes, Study Finds
A new study from the University of Virginia suggests that weightlifting may be more effective than running in preventing and managing type 2 diabetes.Researchers compared the effects of endurance training versus strength training in mice fed a high-fat diet, mimicking a typical Western diet high in fast food.
Two groups of mice were studied. One group engaged in voluntary running on a treadmill (endurance training), while the other performed a weightlifting exercise – lifting an increasingly heavy lid to access their food, eventually lifting weights equivalent to 240% of their body weight. Both exercise regimens successfully prevented weight gain.
However, the results revealed notable differences in how each exercise impacted the mice. Weightlifting proved substantially more effective at reducing dangerous belly fat, a key risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes. Running,conversely,primarily boosted brown adipose tissue (which burns calories) and improved overall endurance.
The most striking difference emerged in blood sugar control. Mice in the weightlifting group demonstrated substantially improved insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance – the very functions impaired in diabetes – despite showing only modest gains in muscle size or strength.
Researchers believe this is due to the distinct metabolic effects of each exercise type. While running primarily burns calories during the activity,weightlifting appears to fundamentally alter how the body processes sugars and utilizes insulin.
The study highlights that strength training may offer a unique advantage in diabetes prevention and management.However,experts generally recommend incorporating both endurance and strength training into a comprehensive fitness routine for optimal health benefits.
Source: Journal of Sport and Health Science – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095254625000821?via%3Dihub
