The Effect of Two Types of Combined Training on Physical Performance and Body Composition in Type 2 Diabetic Women with Peripheral Neuropathy

Background & objectives: Peripheral diabetic neuropathy is one of the most commonly diagnosed microvascular complications of diabetes, which due to impairment in the deep sensory performance, decreases in balance and strength and muscular endurance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of two types of combined training on physical performance and body composition in type 2 diabetic women with peripheral neuropathy. Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, 33 women with diabetic neuropathy were divided into three groups (two experimental groups and one control). Training groups performed combined aerobic-resistance exercises for 12 weeks, 3 times a week with specific volume and intensity. The program of training group 1 was resistance training with 2-3 sets, 10-12 repetitions for each exercise in 4-5 station and aerobic interval with 70- 55% maximum heart rate for 30 to 45 minutes. For group 2, the exercises were similar to the first group, with this difference that the resistance training was performed for 8 to 10 station and the aerobic training for 15 to 22 minutes. The control group did not participate in any training program. Before and after interventions, physical function, body composition and blood samples were measured in all subjects. The data were analyzed via repeated measurements of ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc test with a significant level of p<0.05. Results: The results showed the significant improvement in balance after 12 weeks of training in experimental group 2 compared to 1 and control groups (p<0.05). Also, the maximum power, muscular endurance of the lower limbs and maximum oxygen consumption in experimental groups 1 and 2 were significantly higher than control group (p<0.05). However, there was no significant difference between the blood parameters (fasting blood glucose, HbA1C, insulin, insulin resistance), body mass index, weight, waist circumference and body fat percentage (p<0.05). Conclusion: Combined training with two different volumes can improve physical function and body composition in diabetic neuropathic patients. However, the combined training with the dominant resistance showed more impact. Therefore, in order to improve the performance indicators, it is recommended for diabetic neuropathy patients, to use combined programs with dominant resistance training, if they have no limitation.