Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing health issues in Australia — and it’s already a big concern in our Penrith, Jordan Springs, Mount Annan and Caringbah communities. The good news? Regular, safe exercise can play a major role in managing and even preventing Type 2 diabetes.
At The Healthy Body Company, our physiotherapists are proud to support programs like Beat It, a Diabetes Australia initiative that helps people living with diabetes take control of their health through exercise and education.
Diabetes occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin or cannot use insulin effectively.
Insulin is the hormone that helps move glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream into your body’s cells to provide energy. Without enough insulin, glucose builds up in the blood, leading to both short- and long-term health complications affecting the heart, kidneys, eyes, nerves, and feet.
Type 1 diabetes – An autoimmune condition that destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It accounts for around 10% of all diabetes cases.
Type 2 diabetes – Represents around 90% of all cases and is often linked to lifestyle factors. In Type 2 diabetes, the pancreas may not produce enough insulin, or the body may not use it effectively.
Regular exercise is one of the most powerful ways to manage diabetes. It helps by:
Improving the way your body uses insulin
Reducing blood glucose levels
Supporting a healthy weight
Lowering blood pressure
Boosting mood and overall energy
Research shows that a combination of low-intensity aerobic exercise (like walking, swimming, or cycling) and strength training provides the best results for blood glucose control.
Before starting any new exercise program, it’s important to get advice that’s tailored to your health and fitness level.
Our physiotherapists at The Healthy Body Company will assess your current mobility, fitness, and medical background to design a personalised plan that helps you exercise safely and effectively.
If you have diabetes, remember to:
Monitor your blood glucose levels before, during, and after exercise
Avoid exercising when you feel unwell
Progress gradually to prevent soreness or injury
We’re proud to run the Beat It program — an 8-week group exercise and lifestyle education program designed by Diabetes Australia. Led by our experienced physiotherapists, it’s suitable for people with diabetes or at risk of developing it.
Participants learn safe, enjoyable ways to increase physical activity, build strength, and improve confidence — all within a supportive environment.
Our group classes are small groups and are run by our physio team. They are designed to support participants who are returning to exercise or who need guidance.
Find out more about Beat It and how to join: https://digital.diabetesaustralia.com.au/beat-it
If you live in Penrith, Jordan Springs, Mount Annan, Caringbah, or nearby areas, our physiotherapists can help you start moving safely and confidently.
Book an appointment today to learn how physiotherapy and structured exercise can help manage or prevent diabetes.
📍 The Healthy Body Company – Your Local Physio
The Beat It program includes exercise and education, run by our physios and designed to support you to get your diabetes under control.
