PURPOSE: Amidst the global diabetes crisis, Europe faces mortality and prevalence rates of 10 to 12%, as reported by the World Health Organisation. The COVID-19 pandemic worsened metabolic concerns, particularly in India. This study delves into the unexplored impact of type 2 diabetes on individuals with a normal BMI, examining the efficacy of supervised nordic walking in improving glycemic control and aerobic capacity compared to standard activity and diet control. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A parallel arm superiority randomised controlled trial enrolled 70 participants (aged 40 to 65) with type 2 diabetes and BMI < 25 kg/m2. The intervention group (n = 35) received 4 weeks of Nordic walking alongside conventional treatment, while the control group (n = 35) received only conventional treatment. Key outcomes included glycated haemoglobin levels, maximum oxygen uptake, and rate of perceived exertion. RESULTS: The intervention group exhibited a substantial decrease in glycated haemoglobin (mean difference 0.58, p < 0.001) compared to the control group, which showed minimal changes (mean difference 0.09, p > 0.05). Additionally, the intervention group demonstrated significant enhancements in maximal oxygen uptake (p < 0.001) and distance walked (mean difference 56.74, p < 0.001), whereas the control group experienced minimal alterations. Rate of perceived exertion showed no significant changes in either group. CONCLUSIONS: Supervised Nordic walking demonstrated notable enhancements in glycemic control and aerobic capacity in individuals with type 2 diabetes and a normal BMI.

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