Science

Robert Ross, PHD

It has long been established that a single exercise session can increase insulin- stimulated glucose uptake in previously sedentary adults. A single bout of moderate intensity exercise can increase glucose uptake by at least 40%. The benefits of exercise diminish rather quickly, however, as the effects generally dissipate within 48 to 72 h of the last exercise session. This observation is reinforced by investigations demonstrating that cessation of exercise in trained persons is associated with a marked and rapid decrease in insulin sensitivity. A detailed review of the putative mechanisms by which exercise enhances insulin action is the subject of several excellent reviews.