Sports

Physical activities—like tag, kickball and swimming—can help keep your blood sugar within your target range. It doesn’t really matter what type of physical activity you do because whenever you exercise, you use more energy and your body burns off more of the sugar in your blood. Just remember to check your levels frequently so that you can make sure your levels stay close to your target range.

Be safe when you play sports.

• Tell your coach or teacher that you have diabetes. Your parents will tell them how to spot the symptoms of low blood sugar
• Bring candy or juice to have handy just in case you get low blood sugar
• Check your blood sugar before you start exercising and when you go on breaks
• For really tough sports (like soccer, track, or hockey) talk to your parents in advance so you can work out a plan to balance your other diabetes needs around the sport

Next: Friends & School

Sources:  American Diabetes Association (ADA)
               Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation

Did you know?

Exercising can change your mood. If you’re stressed out or upset, exercising for as little as ten minutes can help you calm down.

It can also affect your blood sugar, so always remember to check it!

Diabetes Dictionary

Blood Sugar:

Sugar in the form of glucose in the blood.

Exercise:

The activity of exerting your muscles in various ways to keep fit.