Case study 4
Case Study: Type 1 Diabetes and Body Composition
Case Description:
Jordan, a 25-year-old male graduate student, is looking to decrease body fat while improving overall strength
and endurance. He was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 12 and has remained physically active,
having played club level soccer during his undergrad years. He stands at 5’11 and currently weights 185lbs
up from his college weight of 170 lbs. his current body fat percentage is 27%. Jordan has recently
transitioned to a remote research position, which has significantly reduced his daily activity. He is concern
about continuing weight gain and the loss of his athletic performance. Typically, his pre-exercise blood
glucose reads around 110mg/dl but during exercise it can spike to 230mg/dl according to clinical guidelines,
blood glucose between 90-250 mg/dl is considering safe for exercise. Reading below 70 mg/dl require fast
acting carbohydrates and monitoring, while reading above 250 mg/dl may require administration, and
exercise should be delayed.
SMART Goal:
Jordan will lose 15 lbs. of body fat and improve muscle definition over the next 12 months though a
combination of aerobic and stength training workouts lasting at least 30 mins, 5 times per week, while
regularly tracking his blood glucose before, during and after exercise
Rubric Questions:
What type of test would you preform on the client to see if they are clear for exercise?
A medical clearance
A PAR-Q
A body comp analysis and baseline fitness tests
Is the client clear to exercise?
Yes, provided he gets medical clearance and continues to monitor his blood glucose levels properly, Jordan is
clear for moderate to vigorous physical activity with appropriate supervision and precautions.
What precautions would you take as the personal trainer when having this client?
Ensure Jordan has a glucometer, fast acting carbs, and insulin nearby during workouts
Check blood sugar before, possibly during, and after workouts
Educate him on the signs of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia
Avoid exercising if glucose is <70 mg/dl or >250 mg/dl without correction Maintain open communication with his healthcare provider if needed
What type of exercise would you prescribe for this client?
Anaerobic
Aerobic
Why would you prescribe this type of exercise?
A combination of both helps promote fat loss and muscle maintenance, improves insulin sensitivity, and
supports long term weight management. Strength training increases lean mass and boosts resting metabolism,
while aerobic exercise supports cardiovascular health and calorie expenditure.