Community Conversations: Bezzy T2D Shares Their Favorite Ways to Stay Active

Making the choice to get active not only boosts your health and mood, but also enables you to better manage your T2D.

For many who are working to manage their type 2 diabetes (T2D), the goal of being physically active is high on the list. However, if you are out of practice when it comes to exercise, getting started can be much easier said than done.

The Bezzy T2D Community understands what you’re going through and how integral physical activity can be to the betterment of your health and wellness. Here are some tips and tricks from community members themselves on their favorite ways to stay active as they manage their T2D.

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Find a friend who holds you accountable

“Exercise has been a struggle for the past several months, but I am turning a corner and I am feeling motivated. I joined a gym last week and have set a mini goal with a friend to go 3 times this week. Having a buddy helps to keep me accountable.” —Kimipeli

Start with baby steps, literally

“I’m not a runner and it’s a million degrees out here right now, so walking is my way to get some exercise. I purchased a personal-sized foldable electric treadmill for my room to assist with motivation.” —Onmytermz

“I do two power walks a day for just under an hour each, and find that to be a really good amount for me. Don’t overdo it. Go with a fitness routine that is sustainable. Walking 30 minutes after each meal is a good strategy too.” —2tallkim

Set personal challenges, and keep it fun

“I have a FitBit challenge partner and we do weekly walking challenges. I make a game out of it and do little exercises every time I get up from the computer during the day, come to a TV commercial, or finish two chapters in a book. I also changed to a standing desk!” —Cal90

Do yoga to strengthen body and mind

“​Yoga is a good way to start out. It is low impact and low stress and gets the body used to new movement.” —Jade99

“You can try chair yoga. I have OA in my knees, hips, and spine. It is terrible. I also have terrible peripheral neuropathy and, truth be told, I almost gave up but I’m fighting back. I started light with chair yoga and exercising in a warm therapy pool. Start with something light at first then build up to more if that’s what suits you.” —Cath53

Try taking the plunge

“When I got diagnosed last month I made drastic changes to my eating and began swimming 3 days a week. This condition has been a curse and a blessing. I’m choosing to focus on the blessing right now. I’m finally taking care of my body seriously this time! I realize how important it is to be healthy and I’m going to keep pressing!” —Kanyinsola31

Set progress markers to keep you motivated

“Understanding your progress is so important because it helps you keep going. Maybe that’s numbers on the scale, or measuring with measuring tape. Maybe it’s better sleep or more energy. Whatever you’re looking at, seeing the changes can motivate you to push harder.” —Mila

Don’t give up, even when it seems impossible

“I can’t believe it, but I’ve really gotten into a major exercise swing. I’ve been walking 60–90 minutes, several times a week, and doing a 90-minute yoga class on Sundays. I’m also trying to ride my bike once a week. I can’t even believe this is me. I’m sharing this because when I took my first walk in February after my diagnosis I could only walk for 20 minutes, and that was less than a half mile!

My butt was completely kicked and the idea of trying again felt so, so hard. Now I’m looking forward to walking, enjoying being outside, and the nice tired feeling in my body when I’ve gone five and a half miles. Don’t give up the idea that you may one day miraculously enjoy exercise. If it can happen to me it can happen to anyone!” —Gwn

The bottom line

There is no right or wrong way to stay active. If the idea of going on a run or bike ride seems daunting right now, try lacing up your shoes and going for a walk around the block. We all start somewhere, and you never know, you just may find a new hobby or some like-minded friends along the way. The starting line is waiting for you.