Dose-response relationships of resistance training in Type 2 diabetes mellitus: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Background: Globally, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) accounts for approximately 90% of diabetes cases. Resistance training (RT) is frequently employed to diminish Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c) and Fast Blood Glucose (FBG) levels in T2DM patients. Yet, the specific dose-response relationships between RT variables such as training duration, frequency, and intensity for T2DM remain under-researched. Objectives: This meta-analysis aimed to elucidate the overarching effects of RT on HbA1c and FBG metrics and to provide dose-response relationships of RT variables. This was achieved by examining randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that reported reductions in HbA1c and FBG among T2DM patients. Methods: Comprehensive literature searches were conducted up to 25 Results: 26 studies that include 1336 participants met the criteria for inclusion. RT significantly reduced HbA1c and FBG levels in comparison to control groups (P<0.05). Meta-regression analyses revealed that the number of repetitions per set (p=0.034) was a significant predictor of RT's efficacy on HbA1c. Subgroup analyses indicated that the most pronounced reductions in HbA1c and FBG occurred with a training duration of 12-16 weeks, intensities of 70-80% of 1 RM, training frequencies of 2-3 times per week, 3 sets per session, 8-10 repetitions per set, and less than a 60-second rest interval. Conclusion: The beneficial impact of RT on HbA1c and FBG in T2DM patients is affirmed by this systematic review and meta-analysis. Moreover, the critical training parameters identified in this study are pivotal in enhancing HbA1c and FBG reductions, providing a reference for clinical staff to formulate RT exercise regiments for T2DM patients. Systematic review registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42023414616.