A most common benefit recognized is the increase in muscular strength and endurance. There is a buildup of lean body mass and a decrease in body fat. The range of motion and the flexibility of the arms and legs are improved. Triglycerides and cholesterol are lowered. Blood-pressure control is improved.
Depression is decreased.
The pain threshold is increased. There are benefits that are even more specific to diabetes management. Some of these are the increased sensitivity of the cell-receptor site to insulin. This sensitivity is noted as a decline in blood-glucose levels due to the improved use of insulin by the cells. The result is a reduction in the total insulin needed.