Exercise and Diabetes: A Clinician's Guide to Prescribing Physical Activity by Sheri R. Colberg – Comprehensive Clinical

Introduction

For millions of Indians living with diabetes, the journey toward better health often involves a careful balance of medication, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Yet one of the most powerful tools—physical activity—remains underutilised, largely due to a lack of clear, evidence-based guidance. Exercise and Diabetes: A Clinician's Guide to Prescribing Physical Activity, authored by the renowned Dr Sheri R. Colberg and published by the American Diabetes Association, bridges this critical gap. This hardcover volume equips healthcare professionals, students, and informed patients with the knowledge to design safe, effective exercise prescriptions tailored to individual needs.

Book Overview

Published by the American Diabetes Association—a globally respected authority in diabetes care—this comprehensive guide distils decades of clinical research into practical, actionable advice. Dr Colberg, a professor of human movement sciences and a person living with type 1 diabetes herself, brings unparalleled credibility to the subject. The book moves beyond generic recommendations, offering detailed protocols for aerobic training, resistance exercise, flexibility work, and balance activities. It addresses the unique challenges faced by individuals with type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes, as well as those at risk. Each chapter is grounded in the latest scientific evidence, including insights from the landmark joint position statement on exercise and type 2 diabetes that Dr Colberg co-authored.

Key Highlights

• Evidence-Based Protocols: Every exercise recommendation is supported by peer-reviewed research, ensuring clinical accuracy and patient safety.
• Real-World Applicability: Practical case studies and sample exercise plans make it easy to translate theory into daily practice.
• Comprehensive Coverage: From insulin adjustments during workouts to managing hypoglycaemia, the book covers all essential aspects of exercise in diabetes care.
• Authoritative Source: Written by a leading expert with decades of experience, and published by the American Diabetes Association.

Inside the Book

The book is structured to guide readers from foundational concepts to advanced prescription strategies. Early chapters explain the physiological impact of exercise on glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and cardiovascular health. Subsequent sections delve into specific exercise modalities—aerobic, resistance, flexibility, and balance—with detailed guidelines on intensity, duration, frequency, and progression. Special chapters address exercise in children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with complications such as neuropathy or retinopathy. The final sections provide tools for monitoring, adjusting medications, and preventing adverse events.

Key Topics

• Physiological effects of acute and chronic exercise on blood glucose
• Designing individualised exercise prescriptions for type 1 and type 2 diabetes
• Managing hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia during physical activity
• Exercise considerations for diabetic complications (neuropathy, retinopathy, nephropathy)
• Integrating resistance training, aerobic exercise, and flexibility work
• Behavioural strategies to improve long-term adherence to exercise routines
• Special populations: children, adolescents, older adults, and pregnancy

Reader Benefits

By reading this book, clinicians gain the confidence to prescribe exercise as a therapeutic intervention, not just a general lifestyle recommendation. Students in medicine, physiotherapy, and nutrition will find a clear framework for understanding how physical activity interacts with diabetes pathophysiology. For patients and caregivers, the book offers a roadmap to safer, more effective workouts—reducing the risk of injury and metabolic complications. Ultimately, this guide empowers readers to use exercise as a powerful, low-cost tool to improve glycaemic control, reduce cardiovascular risk, and enhance quality of life.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the physiological mechanisms by which exercise improves insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake
• Learn to assess a patient's fitness level, risk factors, and readiness for exercise
• Develop skills to create customised exercise plans that account for medication timing, food intake, and glucose monitoring
• Recognise and manage exercise-related complications such as hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia
• Apply evidence-based guidelines to special populations, including those with comorbidities
• Evaluate and adjust exercise prescriptions over time based on patient progress and feedback

Who Should Read

This book is indispensable for endocrinologists, diabetologists, general physicians, physiotherapists, exercise physiologists, dietitians, and diabetes educators. It is also highly valuable for postgraduate students in medicine, sports science, and public health. Additionally, informed individuals living with diabetes—especially those who are active or wish to start exercising—will find practical, safe advice that goes beyond generic internet tips. Indian healthcare settings, where diabetes prevalence is high and resources may be limited, will particularly benefit from the book's focus on low-cost, accessible interventions.

About the Author

Dr Sheri R. Colberg is a professor of human movement sciences at Old Dominion University and a globally recognised authority on exercise and diabetes. She is the senior author of the American College of Sports Medicine and American Diabetes Association joint position statement on exercise and type 2 diabetes. Dr Colberg has authored numerous consumer and professional books, including The Diabetic Athlete and The Diabetic Athlete’s Handbook. Living with type 1 diabetes herself, she brings a unique blend of personal experience and academic rigour to her work, making her advice both empathetic and scientifically sound.

About the Publisher

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is the leading global organisation dedicated to fighting diabetes through research, education, and advocacy. Its publications are trusted by healthcare professionals worldwide for their accuracy, clarity, and clinical relevance. This book reflects the ADA's commitment to providing evidence-based resources that improve patient outcomes and support clinicians in delivering high-quality care.

Conclusion

Exercise and Diabetes: A Clinician's Guide to Prescribing Physical Activity is an essential resource for anyone involved in diabetes care—from seasoned clinicians to students and motivated patients. Its blend of scientific depth, practical tools, and compassionate guidance makes it a standout title in the field. By empowering readers to harness the therapeutic power of movement, this book has the potential to transform diabetes management in India and beyond. Order your hardcover copy today from Bookshops.in and take a decisive step toward better health through informed physical activity.