The prevalence of insulin-resistant conditions – such as obesity, the
metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes – is on the increase affecting
all age groups and both sexes.1 A sedentary lifestyle lies at the core of
these disorders; therefore, increased physical activity is considered an
integral part of lifestyle modification for the prevention and treatment
of insulin resistance.2,3 There is a wealth of epidemiological evidence
indicating that high levels of habitual physical activity are associated
with lower incidences of obesity, the metabolic syndrome and type 2
diabetes.2,3 This article will review current knowledge regarding exercise
and insulin sensitivity, focusing on factors that determine the response
to exercise, such as acute versus chronic exercise, the mode and amount
of exercise, duration and intensity, as well as other parameters that may
modify this response...