Low-Load High-Velocity Resistance Exercises Improve Strength and Functional Capacity in Diabetic Patients

This study investigated the effects of low-load high-velocity resistance exercises on neuromuscular and functional outcomes in patients with Type 2 diabetes (T2D) during the early-phase of resistance training. Thirty participants with T2D performed 18 training sessions (6 weeks – 3x week) in one of two groups: low-load high-velocity exercises (LLHV, n=15, 62.1±10.5 years) or recreational activities (RA, n=15 56.7 ± 19.4 years). LLHV performed resistance exercises with 3x 8reps as fast as possible with 50-60% 1RM. RA performed light activities. Strength, power, and functional tests were assessed. There was significant increasing in the knee extension peak-torque at 60°/s (7.6%) and 180°/s (12.2%), rate of force development in the LLHV group (P<0.05), whereas there were no changes in the RA group. Significant increases in functional test were observed in the LLHV group (P<0.01) with no changes in the RA group. In conclusion, the LLHV induced marked improvements in neuromuscular parameters, as well as in the functional capacity of participants with T2D.