Mind-body exercise showed tentative physical benefits in type 2 diabetes
Different approaches showed benefits for different physical outcomes, but most evidence had very low certainty and psychological findings were less stable.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
The analysis suggested better balance and walking ability with Pilates, better aerobic capacity with walking meditation, and greater muscle strength with yoga. These were separate outcome signals, with most evidence rated very low certainty. They do not establish which approach works best overall, and psychological effects remain uncertain.
The abstract does not give trial lengths or control details. Most evidence was rated very low certainty, and psychological results were sensitive to influential studies.
What researchers found
Balance ability
Pilates versus control: the balance difference was 1.52 standard deviations, units based on variation in participants' scores. Positive favors Pilates; it is not raw score points or a percentage improvement. Assessment timing was unreported; most evidence was very low certainty.
Different outcomes need separate answers
The review compared several approaches across balance, walking, fitness, strength and mental health. A favorable result for a particular outcome does not establish broad benefits across all areas.
How stable were the results?
Physical-function findings generally held up in sensitivity analyses, checks of how particular studies affect pooled results. Psychological findings were less stable, including the reported reduction in anxiety with mindfulness-based interventions.
The original publication
Mind-body exercise for improving balance, aerobic capacity, walking ability, muscle strength, and mental health in patients with type 2 diabetes: a network meta-analysis.
Wu F, Yuan Y, Hou Y et al.
Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) · 2026
- PubMed ID
- 41858857
- Record checked
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