Weight Lifting is Better Than Running for Blood Sugar Control

Researchers studied how endurance and resistance exercises affected mice that were fed high-fat diets.

According to a new study, if you’re looking to control your blood sugar…weightlifting, not running, is recommended.

Researchers studied how endurance and resistance exercises affected mice that were fed high-fat diets. After several weeks, the team found while running and weightlifting both helped the mice process the extra sugar – weightlifting-type exercises were better at reducing body fat, controlling blood sugar, and processing insulin. You might be asking how can a mouse lift weights? The team designed a hinged, weighted lid that the mice had to lift which simulated a squat-like movement. the other mice had access to a running wheel for cardio.

The researchers believe the take-home message is that people who cannot participate in endurance exercises can still get a beneficial workout using resistance methods…but both are best for optimal results.