insulin, a hormone which takes the sugar from the blood into the cells where it is used as energy or stored for later use. In Type II, patients have enough insulin but it is not working, primarily due to excess weight. The extra fat creates an oil slick around the cells which prevents the insulin from opening the cell doors to let the sugar in. This oil slick is called insulin resistance.

The majority of Type II diabetics have insulin resistance, and the best way to treat this is with exercise and a healthy meal plan. Exercise not only promotes weight loss but helps the insulin to work better. It is as important to Type II's as insulin is to Type I's.

Exercise prescriptions must be tailored to fit lifestyle and age differences.

People over 60 exercise primarily to improve their health. Safety is of utmost concern for this group. -- Debbie Jones, Diabetes Nurse.