Walk outdoors when the weather is fine, or otherwise pick from a number of indoor possibilities. Besides inside walking tracks at gyms and recreation centers, you can choose from literally thousands of mall-walking programs. To find a mall-walking program near you, contact the National Organization of Mall Walkers, PO Box 191, Hermann, MO 65041. The only thing you need to begin your aerobic walking exercise is a good pair of shoes. Be sure your shoes fit well because diabetic foot neuropathy and reduced circulation could place you at an increased risk for blisters, ulcers, and infections.
Foot care is especially important for people with diabetes.
Badenhop highly recommends that people with diabetes have two pairs of walking shoes and alternate from day to day between pairs to help keep their feet dry. Cardiovascular conditioning is the single most important aspect of an exercise program for a person with diabetes. Focus on fitting regular and frequent aerobic exercise into your schedule, but do it safely. Eat foods such as bread, pasta, cereal, and rice 2-3 hours before exercise. Don t exercise on an empty stomach.