Evidence now suggests that physical activity is a component of type 2 diabetes prevention because of its beneficial impact on insulin sensitivity. The Relationship between Insulin Sensitivity and Cardiovascular risk (RISC) study examined the association between insulin sensitivity assessed by hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp and physical activity measured by the use of an accelerometer. This cross-sectional multicentre study included 346 men and 455 women aged 30-60 years without cardiovascular disease and not under drug treatment for diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, or obesity. Total activity (in counts per minute) was associated with insulin sensitivity in both men and women (p<0.0001). Moreover, insulin sensitivity was positively associated with total activity, percent time spent in light activity, and activity intensity but negatively associated with time spent sedentary. However, after adjusting for total activity, these relationships were no longer significant. Even among the most sedentary individuals, total activity was associated with better insulin sensitivity. In a broader context, these results highlight the importance of being even minimally physically active in order to maintain insulin sensitivity, thereby helping to prevent or delay the development of type 2 diabetes.
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