The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of daily passive exercise using a horseback riding machine (Joba®) on insulin sensitivity and resting metabolism in middle-aged, diabetic patients. Participants were 24 type 2 diabetes mellitus patients aged 59 ± 8 years (mean ± SD; range from 43 to 75 years of age). Patients were randomly divided into control (normal lifestyle) and Joba® exercise groups. The latter group was instructed to perform one 30-min session of Joba? riding per day, 7 times per week, for 3 months. Compared with baseline values, serum immunoreactive insulin (IRI) concentrations decreased and HOMA-IR was improved by Joba® training. In addition, exercise duration per day significantly correlated (r = --0.65) with changes in serum IRI, and 3-month mechanical horseback riding significantly increased the resting metabolic rate of the patients. These results suggest that daily Joba® passive exercise is potentially useful as a means to improve insulin sensitivity and resting metabolism in diabetic patients. The Joba® fitness equipment can prove especially useful as an alternative exercise therapy for aged individuals incapable of performing independent exercise or for those who suffer from knee-joint disorders.
Effects of Daily Mechanical Horseback Riding on Insulin Sensitivity and Resting Metabolism in Middle-Aged Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients
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