Elderly patients with type 2 diabetes and sarcopenia might benefit from resistance training, according to a meta-analysis of 8 studies involving 360 individuals. Such a regimen appears to improve glycemic control and muscle strength.

The evaluated trials were comprised of participants with type 2 diabetes who were aged ≥60 years, had a fasting plasma glucose of at least 7.0, and at least 8 weeks of resistance training. Among the findings:

• Resistance training groups lowered HbA1c by −0.37.
• It did not significantly impact lean body mass.
• High-intensity subgroups tended to improve and experience decreased HbA1c levels more than low-intensity subgroups.
• Resistance training increased muscle strength.