Structured exercise program improves glycemic control and fitness in Bangladeshi adults with type 2 diabetes

PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of a 6-week physiotherapist-led structured physical exercise program (SPEP) alongside routine medication on glycemic control, physical fitness, and quality of life in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Bangladesh. METHODS: Ninety adults with T2DM for over 3 years were randomly assigned to an experimental (n = 45) or control group (n = 45). The experimental group performed 3 supervised SPEP sessions per week plus prescribed medication, and the control group continued routine medication with lifestyle guidance for 6 weeks. Glycemic control, assessed by capillary blood glucose (CBG), was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included physical fitness 6-minute walk test (6MWT), and quality of life (Short Form-36 [SF-36]). Assessments were conducted at baseline and postintervention by blinded assessors, and data were analyzed using the intention-to-treat principle. RESULTS: Baseline characteristics were comparable. Both groups improved across outcomes, with greater gains in the experimental group, including reductions in CBG, increased 6MWT distance, and higher SF-36 scores. Adherence was high, and no serious adverse events occurred. CONCLUSIONS: Six weeks of physiotherapist-led SPEP added to routine medication improved glycemic control, physical fitness, and quality of life in adults with T2DM. These findings support the feasibility and short-term efficacy of structured exercise in this population. Future studies should assess long-term sustainability and metabolic benefits.