Game, Set, Match: Tennis and Diabetes

Tennis for people living with diabetes

Before pickleball's popularity, there was tennis — a classic, fun, and engaging way to stay active. Among the many options for exercise, tennis can help improve overall well-being and even make a great addition to your diabetes management plan. 

If you thought having diabetes means you can’t play sports or maintain an active lifestyle, we’re here to tell you that’s far from the truth!
 

Pro tennis player with type 1 diabetes

Alexander Zverev, one of the top professional tennis players in the world, is living proof that diabetes doesn’t have to limit your potential.

Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at just four years old, Zverev spent years hiding his condition, fearing judgment. But now, he’s turning his story into a source of strength and inspiration.

“Becoming a professional tennis player was always my dream,” Zverev shared. “Early on, I was told that competing at the highest level with diabetes was impossible — but my family and I refused to accept that. I want every person with diabetes to feel empowered to live the life they want.”

Zverev defied early expectations to become one of the world’s best tennis players, reaching a career-high ATP ranking of No. 2, winning Olympic gold, and claiming two ATP Finals titles.

Through his partnership with Medtronic Diabetes, Zverev is empowering others with diabetes to pursue their dreams. His story serves as a powerful reminder that with determination and the right support, anything is possible.

Hear more from Alexander Zverev:

• Alexander Zverev joins forces with #MedtronicDiabetes to show that everything is possible.
• #RapidFireQuestions with pro tennis star living with #T1D  
   

Diabetes and exercise

Zverev is certainly an inspiration, but you don’t have to be an aspiring Olympian to prioritize your health and physical fitness. Getting regular exercise can do wonders for managing diabetes. 

The benefits of exercise for people with diabetes are many,¹ including:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Improving your mental health
• Sleeping better
• Strengthening your memory
• Controlling your blood pressure
   

Benefits of tennis

Playing tennis regularly can provide numerous health advantages. For starters, tennis combines different types of movements — like running around the court and quick bursts of energy — that can make your body use insulin more effectively, which is great for keeping your glucose levels in check.² The cardio you do on the court can also strengthen your heart, reducing the risk of diabetes-related complications.¹

Plus, tennis isn’t just about physical activity, it’s also a mental game! The focus and strategy required can help reduce stress.
 

Managing diabetes during and after play

Playing tennis is a great way to stay active and creates an opportunity to join a new community as well, but as with any change to your lifestyle, staying safe is most important. If you’re considering taking up tennis (or any physical activity that is new to you), preparation is key to enjoying a new sport safely. 

Before you hit the court, consider the following:

• Check your tech: make sure you have everything you need to manage your diabetes while you’re on the court.
• Stay in range: check your glucose levels before, during, and after playing to ensure it stays within a safe range.
• Hydrate: drink plenty of water. Dehydration can affect glucose levels and cause other adverse health effects.
• Fuel up: eat a balanced meal or snack before playing to maintain stable glucose levels.
• Have a backup plan: keep quick-acting carbohydrates, like glucose tablets or fruit, on hand in case of hypoglycemia.

Before signing up for any classes or buying any gear, be sure to discuss fitness plans with your healthcare team to ensure they align with your diabetes management and healthcare needs. 

If you are looking for therapy solutions to help manage your diabetes, view options from Medtronic.

References
1. Get Active! Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Page. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/managing/active.html. Accessed 9AUG2021
2. Anaerobic Exercise and Diabetes. American Diabetes Association https://diabetes.org/health-wellness/fitness/anaerobic-exercise-diabetes