A culturally focused exercise program in Hispanic adults with type 2 diabetes: a pilot study.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this pilot study was to examine the feasibility and effectiveness of a community-based, culturally focused, exercise program for adults in the Hispanic community with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

A pretest/posttest design using a culturally designed exercise program through dance was used. A total of 19 Mexican American men and women (39 to 64 years of age) with type 2 diabetes were recruited. Mean preprogram and postprogram differences were examined in hemoglobin A1C, lipid panel, body mass index (BMI), and psychological well-being.

RESULTS

Feasibility was demonstrated by exceeding our recruitment goal and achieving an 84% completion rate and 75% attendance rate for the exercise sessions. Mean hemoglobin A1C, lipids, and psychological well-being demonstrated trends toward improvement from the beginning of the program to the end. BMI remained unchanged. Physical activity increased and all participants met the physical activity goals from the national physical activity guidelines for Americans by the end of the program.

CONCLUSIONS

The culturally focused exercise program detailed here is effective in promoting regular physical activity among Hispanic adults with type 2 diabetes.