Tasmania’s much-anticipated Pollie Pedal 2025 officially launched today, with riders embarking from Hagley Farm School in Launceston.

Her Excellency the Honourable Barbara Baker AC, Governor of Tasmania, Deputy Premier Guy Barnett, and Diabetes Australia Chief Operating Officer Craig Sedgman joined students and supporters to celebrate the event’s impact in raising funds and awareness for diabetes.

The inspiring three-day cycling event, which runs from February 28 to March 2, will see cyclists traverse over 300km of Tasmania’s stunning landscape, riding to support the 88,000 Tasmanians living with diabetes and prediabetes.

For Deputy Premier Barnett, an old boy of Hagley Farm School who lives with type 1 diabetes and takes part in Pollie Pedal every year, the event is a personal and community milestone.

Before he started cycling, Deputy Premier Barnett was delighted to meet Hagley Farm School Year 4 student Charlie Medwin and his parents, Karissa and Jesse. Charlie has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in April last year, and was a special representative of the diabetes community at the Pollie Pedal launch this morning.

Speaking at the launch, Mr Barnett emphasized the event’s importance beyond the cycling challenge.

“Pollie Pedal is about resilience, community, and the determination to make a difference. As someone who manages type 1 diabetes every day, I understand the significance of support, education, and research in changing lives,” Mr Barnett said.

“This ride is a powerful way to unite Tasmanians in our mission to reduce the impact of diabetes. Every turn of the pedals represents hope for those living with this condition. Whether you ride, donate, or cheer from the sidelines, your contribution matters.”

Diabetes Australia COO Craig Sedgman praised the Tasmanian community’s enduring commitment to the cause.

“Pollie Pedal is more than a fundraising event. It’s a movement of people coming together to drive change and create a healthier future,” Mr Sedgman said.

“We know that diabetes affects around two million Australians, and the numbers are rising. But through initiatives like Pollie Pedal, we can provide vital programs, invest in prevention, and support those already living with diabetes.

“Worryingly, rates of diabetes have increased by 32% nationally over the past decade.

“We need urgent action to stem the tide of this epidemic and support people who are living with diabetes. Community events like Pollie Pedal support us to do that important work,” he said.

Since its inception in 2006, Pollie Pedal has raised over $850,000, funding essential diabetes programs and research. The 2025 ride will take cyclists through Tasmania’s breathtaking Meander and Tamar Valleys, passing through seaside towns, rolling farmlands, and vibrant rural communities.

Pollie Pedal is open to cyclists of all abilities. Whether riding solo or forming a team, participants will not only experience Tasmania’s stunning backroads but also make a lasting impact on diabetes awareness and support.

Make a difference
To donate or learn more, visit: Pollie Pedal 2025 or email PolliePedal@diabetesaustralia.com.au.

Fast Facts about Pollie Pedal Tasmania 2025:

• Dates: February 28 – March 2, 2025
• Who can participate? Cyclists of all skill levels
• Funds raised since 2006: Over $850,000
• Cause: Supporting Tasmanians living with diabetes and funding prevention efforts

About Diabetes Australia

Diabetes Australia is the national organisation supporting all people living with or at risk of diabetes. We put people first. We work in collaboration with member organisations, consumers, health professionals, researchers and the community.

For more information visit: www.diabetesaustralia.com.au

Tasmania’s stunning landscapes will once again play host to Pollie Pedal Tasmania 2025, a three-day cycling event to raise funds and awareness in support of people living with diabetes.

From Friday, February 28 to Sunday, March 2, cyclists of all levels will have the chance to ride alongside Deputy Premier Guy Barnett, who lives with type 1 diabetes, and help make a lasting difference in their community.

With only one month to go until the riders start pedalling, Deputy Premier Barnett is encouraging the community to get involved.

“Pollie Pedal is more than a cycling event. It’s a statement of hope and solidarity,” said Deputy Premier Barnett, who is a passionate advocate for diabetes awareness.

“As someone living with type 1 diabetes, I know firsthand how critical it is to support the people and families affected by this condition.

“The event not only raises much-needed funds for diabetes, but it also brings people together. I’m honoured to be part of it again this year and encourage everyone to register or donate,” he said.

This is Pollie Pedal’s 18^th ride and it has become a cornerstone event in Tasmania, raising over $850,000 since 2006 to fund vital diabetes programs and research. Participants will traverse picturesque coastal roads and rolling hills, uniting for a shared mission to reduce the impact of diabetes on individuals and families.

Diabetes Australia’s Group CEO, Justine Cain, applauded the Tasmanian community’s enduring support for Pollie Pedal.

“This event embodies the spirit of Tasmanians: generous, united, and driven by purpose,” Ms Cain said. “Every kilometre ridden and every dollar donated takes us closer to a future free from diabetes.

“We’re so proud to stand with Guy and all the participants who inspire us with their dedication and enthusiasm.”

This event comes at a time when two million Australians are living with diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes, and even more are living with prediabetes, including 88,000 people in Tasmania.

“Diabetes, if not managed appropriately, can lead to devastating complications such as limb amputation, kidney disease, heart attack and vision loss,” Ms Cain said.

“Worryingly, rates of diabetes have increased by 32% nationally over the past decade.

“We need urgent action to stem the tide of this epidemic and support people who are living with diabetes. Community events like Pollie Pedal support us to do that important work,” she said.

Russell James is a Registered Nurse as well as a lecturer at the University of Tasmania and has a strong family history of type 1 diabetes. He lives in Hobart with his wife and two boys, William, 11, and Xavier, 10. Both Russell and Xavier live with type one diabetes.

“My family’s journey with type 1 diabetes spans generations: my father, my aunt, myself, and now Xavier. Initiatives like Pollie Pedal raise awareness and funds that will help break this cycle for future generations,” Dr James said.

“Cycling alongside Xavier is a powerful reminder that diabetes doesn’t define us. With the right support, education and determination, we can overcome any obstacle and keep moving forward.”

Deputy Premier Barnett, Xavier and Russell James are pictured above after speaking with journalists today at a press conference on the lawns of Hobart’s Parliament House to raise awareness of the upcoming ride.

Pollie Pedal isn’t just for seasoned cyclists; it’s for anyone passionate about making a difference. The event offers an opportunity to experience Tasmania’s breathtaking scenery while contributing to a cause that affects so many.

To register as a rider, sponsor, or donate, visit Pollie Pedal 2025 on Diabetes Australia website or email PolliePedal@diabetesaustralia.com.au.

Join us in the journey toward healthier, happier futures for all Tasmanians.

Fast Facts about Pollie Pedal Tasmania 2025:

• Dates: Friday, February 28 to Sunday, March 2, 2025
• Who can participate? Cyclists of all skill levels
• Funds raised since 2006: Over $850,000
• Cause: Supporting Tasmanians living with diabetes and funding prevention efforts

Together, let’s pedal for change.

About Diabetes Australia

Diabetes Australia is the national organisation supporting all people living with or at risk of diabetes. We put people first. We work in collaboration with member organisations, consumers, health professionals, researchers and the community.

For more information visit: www.diabetesaustralia.com.au

Being overweight and obese is now risking more Australians’ health than smoking according to new data, as a new government dashboard has also highlighted the need for greater investment in type 2 diabetes and chronic conditions.  

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) has released a new study, updated diabetes data, and monitoring results for the National Preventive Health Strategy today. 

According to the Australian Burden of Disease Study 2024, an estimated 8.3% of total disease burden in 2024 was due to overweight (including obesity) and 7.6% was due to tobacco use. This was followed by dietary risks (4.8%) and high blood pressure (4.4%). 

The  study estimates the millions of years of healthy life Australians lose because of injury, illness or premature death, measuring over 200 diseases and injuries. 

The data reinforces what AIHW’s Australia’s Health 2024 report revealed earlier this year: that more than one in two Australians live with a chronic condition (often more than one), and nearly one third of chronic condition illness and death can be prevented, reduced or delayed.   

The Burden of Disease report provides estimates of how much of this burden can be attributed to risk factors such as alcohol use, physical inactivity, poor diet, overweight or obesity, and tobacco smoking. 

Australians lost an estimated 5.8 million years of healthy life due to living with disease and dying prematurely in 2024, the AIHW reports. 

Over one-third of the total burden of disease and injury in Australia in 2024 could have been avoided or reduced due to modifiable risk factors.   

The report shows that while Australians are living longer on average, years lived in ill health are also growing. This adds to the pressure on the Australian health system. 

The AIHW have also launched a new monitoring dashboard for the National Preventive Health Strategy, as well as their latest update of diabetes data. 

The dashboard highlights the urgent need for robust, proactive measures to prevent type 2 diabetes and chronic disease from overwhelming our healthcare system. 

The interactive dashboard tracks progress against targets of two key strategies designed to improve the health and wellbeing of Australians.  

The National Preventive Health Strategy 2021-2030 (NPHS) guides a whole-of-government approach to prevention that addresses the wider determinants of health, reduces health inequities and decreases overall burden of disease, while the National Obesity Strategy 2022–2032  is a framework for action to prevent, reduce and treat overweight and obesity, which around 14 million Australians live with. 

The new data dashboard utilises a ‘traffic light’ report card, against each NPHS target, to visualise regress (red), no change (amber), progress (green) or unknown change between at least two data points.  

It identifies factors including that Australians are eating less fruit, and rates of obesity have not declined.  

Other AIHW report updates released yesterday include: 

• Diabetes: Australian facts  
• Heart, stroke and vascular disease: Australian facts 
• Chronic kidney disease: Australian facts 

By Hayley Nicholson, Exercise Physiologist, Credentialled Diabetes Educator 

Keeping physically active is a great way to manage your blood glucose levels daily as well as long term. But does that mean you need to play vigorous team sports or take up jogging? Absolutely not! In fact, any movement is better than nothing, particularly if it’s done regularly. On average, Australian adults spend more than half of their day sitting and that doesn’t include time spent sleeping. Prolonged periods of sitting increases the risk of chronic health conditions, including but not limited to type 2 diabetes, heart disease, depression and cancer. Not to mention that increased sitting also contributes to poor posture, muscular imbalances and weakened core muscles.  

What is incidental activity?

Incidental activity is any activity built up in small amounts over the day. For example, this may include grocery shopping, climbing the stairs, mowing, gardening, housework and playing with the grandchildren. These activities all require you to move your body and help increase your steps across the day. Incidental activities are important to increase circulation, burn energy and allows you to regularly change position. 

Easy ways to add incidental activity to your day

You can increase your incidental activity by pairing physical activities with things that you already do. That is, multi-tasking and maximizing opportunities to move more and sit less. For example, when you turn the kettle on each morning, you could do some wall push-ups or calf raises. When you take a phone call, take a gentle stroll while you chat, instead of being seated. In addition, look for opportunities to use the stairs where possible, park a little further from the shops, or do some stretches during the commercial breaks of your favourite TV shows. 

How much exercise should you do a day?

The research tells us that in addition to increasing incidental activity, people living with diabetes should also aim to accumulate 30 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise on most days of the week as well as two strength training sessions per week. These are structured exercises where there is a clear purpose to improve cardiovascular fitness, strength, balance, mobility, endurance and flexibility. When working at a moderate intensity, you should be “lightly puffing”, so able to talk and walk but not able to whistle a tune. 

What’s best for blood glucose levels?

It has been shown that people living with diabetes get the best bang for their buck when managing blood glucose levels with a combination of both aerobic and muscle strengthening exercises, and a focus on breaking up long periods of sitting. That is, even if you walk or bike ride 30 minutes per day and then sit for the rest of the day, you can reverse the positive effects. Therefore, structured exercise and incidental activities are just as important as each other and should be combined for maximal health benefit. 

Find out more

If you are looking to become more physically active, you can reach out to your doctor for a referral to an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP), under a diabetes care plan. The AEP can help you increase your incidental activity across the day as well as help you work towards your individual health and fitness goals. 

The ACT Liberal Party has today announced a $4.4 million election commitment for type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes prevention and awareness.

Diabetes Australia has welcomed the commitment to deliver a type 2 diabetes prevention program similar to initiatives run by Diabetes Australia in Queensland and New South Wales, and a gestational diabetes community education campaign.

Diabetes Australia Group CEO, Justine Cain, said this commitment was good news for the ACT and the organisation would welcome a matched commitment from the Labor Government.

“Type 2 diabetes prevention programs are proven and powerful, and we need every government to prioritise them,” Ms Cain said.

“Over the past decade, the total number of Australians living with all types diabetes has risen by 32%.

“Right now in the ACT, over 16,000 people are living with type 2 diabetes, and nearly 1000 more are living with gestational diabetes.

“Unfortunately, diabetes is the leading cause of many costly and debilitating complications including vision loss, amputation, kidney failure and heart disease. It is the underlying cause of death in around 11% of all deaths in Australia.

“Prevention programs like those Diabetes Australia delivers in other states are at the frontline of efforts to help combat Australia’s diabetes epidemic,” she said.

Investment in high-risk prevention has been proven cost effective with every $1 invested generating savings of $14.

Research shows type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed in up to 58% of cases if people are provided with access to appropriate healthcare and support.

“That’s why the commitment to establish a local prevention program here in the ACT to connect people who are at risk of type 2 diabetes with basic health coaching and support is so important,” Ms Cain said.

Prevention of gestational diabetes is also critical for the health of mothers and babies. Gestational diabetes can increase the risk of the mother and the baby developing type 2 diabetes later in life, with women who have previously been diagnosed with gestational diabetes seven times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Children born to mothers with gestational diabetes are also at higher risk of developing obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life.

Diabetes Australia has a strong track record in delivering prevention programs in the community. The My Health for Life preventative health program in Queensland has delivered successful results including:

• 50% of participants met and continue to meet physical activity guidelines
• 66% of participants reported reduced wait circumference
• 50% of participants reported improved quality of life

About type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body becomes resistant to the normal effects of insulin and gradually loses the capacity to produce enough insulin in the pancreas.

The condition has strong genetic and family-related (non-modifiable) risk factors and is also often associated with modifiable lifestyle risk factors.

Type 2 diabetes can cause serious complications to all systems of the body. Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in working age adults; the leading cause of kidney failure and dialysis; it increases the risk of heart attacks and stroke by up to four times; it is a major cause of limb amputations; and it affects a person’s mental health.

About gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) occurs during pregnancy. Women with gestational diabetes can still have a healthy baby but it is important that gestational diabetes is managed to reduce the risk of developing complications during pregnancy.  

Gestational diabetes can increase the risk of the mother and the baby developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Gestational diabetes is diagnosed when higher than normal blood glucose levels first appear during pregnancy. Most women with gestational diabetes will no longer have diabetes after the baby is born.

About Diabetes Australia

Diabetes Australia is the national organisation supporting all people living with or at risk of diabetes. We put people first. We work in collaboration with member organisations, consumers, health professionals, researchers and the community.

For more information visit: www.diabetesaustralia.com.au

Media: Monica Rostron 0409 126 332 mrostron@diabetesaustralia.com.au

In any given year, one million Australian adults suffer from depression, and around two million suffer from anxiety. Given these statistics, it’s no wonder mental health has become an important topic of conversation.

Depression

Depression affects how you feel about yourself and makes day to day life more difficult to manage. It is not a sign of personal weakness, failure, or “all in the mind”. It can happen to anyone. Biological factors (brain chemistry, genes and personality traits), life events (trauma or long-term stress), as well as illness are just some of the factors that contribute to developing depression. It is a complex condition and research is ongoing to understand exactly what happens in the brain to cause depression.

The Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes (ACBRD) conducted a study that found that nearly half (47%) of all people with diabetes in Australia have experienced a mental health challenge because of their diabetes in the past 12 months.

Having a medical condition, such as diabetes, can trigger depression in two ways. Serious conditions can bring about depression directly, or can contribute to depression through associated stress and worry, especially if it involves long-term management, such as in diabetes.

The treatment for depression and diabetes involves a coordinated approach that monitors both diabetes management and the symptoms of depression. It is about finding the treatment that works best for each person. Some people with diabetes and mild depression may find that regular physical activity improves depressed moods, and also helps control blood glucose levels.

The science behind the reason to exercise

Studies show increases in circulating beta endorphins after exercise promotes a good mood, increases your pain threshold and helps with the growth of new brain cells. Certain types of exercise also increase testosterone levels in both men and women, which is thought to have a protective effect against depression. Additionally, the binding of stress chemicals, such as adrenaline, with muscles produces a more relaxed state of mind.

What exercise? How often? How hard?

A comprehensive Australian study demonstrated that moderate to high-intensity resistance training, performed two to three times per week, is more effective than low-intensity resistance training for people with depression. However, given the degree of complexity with diabetes and depression, it is important to exercise at an intensity that is appropriate for you. Check in with your GP or an accredited exercise physiologist to assess what level is right for you.

Active hobbies

Find an active hobby that you enjoy and plan to do it regularly. Team sports are a great way to meet new people, benefit from collaboration, communication and stay motivated (because your team is relying on you). Other active hobbies to consider could include bowling, dancing, joining a walking group, golfing, tai chi classes or rowing. Perhaps try something completely different such as joining a drama class – you’ll be exercising your brain as well as your body, and benefitting from group work. Take a look at what’s on offer at your local community centre or search online.

Yoga

Yoga has been shown to enhance mood. Higher intensity yoga with an emphasis on mindfulness tends to have a better impact on mood than low-intensity, low focus yoga. Yoga has also been shown to help reduce perceived stress and anxiety, which in turn can help lower your heart rate, blood pressure and breathing rate.

Get outside

Try to get outside to exercise to get your daily dose of vitamin D. Outdoor exercise or “green exercise” may provide additional mental health benefits, especially when it comes to managing stress, anxiety and mood. One theory is that outdoor exercise may reduce neural activity to the area in your brain which is responsible for, among other things, repetitively processing negative feelings and thoughts. Next time you are feeling low, try some outdoor exercise such as a local walking trail, park or public garden that is away from the urban sprawl. Even a spot of gardening will give you an extra physical boost. Even better, get involved with a community garden. Not only will you be getting a vitamin D fix and a physical workout, but also social interaction with other people. A triple whammy to stimulate your happy hormones.

Did you know?

• Nearly half of all Australians (43%) will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime.
• Moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms affect one in three people with insulin-treated type 2 diabetes; one in five people with non-insulin-treated type 2 diabetes; and one in four people with type 1 diabetes. This is two to three times more than the general population.
• Feeling down or sad does not necessarily mean that you have a mental health condition. It is normal for your mood to go up and down, particularly as the seasons change.

More information

If you would like further information about depression and it’s symptoms you can refer to the Black Dog Institute website www.blackdoginstitute.org.au  or the Beyond Blue website www.beyondblue.org.au . Alternatively, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

For help with exercise talk your GP, or call the NDSS Helpline on 1800 637 700 and ask to speak to an credentialled exercise physiologist.

Diabetes Australia RN/CDE Carolien Koreneff does a finger prick test on Cook MP Simon Kennedy during the Health Checks and Tech event in Parliament House.

Diabetes Australia held an important Health Check and Tech event at Parliament House in Canberra this week. Group CEO Justine Cain joined people living with diabetes, CDEs and Health Professionals to speak with Senators and MPs about the essential health checks and technologies that support people living with diabetes to live well.

Co-Chairs of the Parliamentary Friends of Diabetes group, Graham Perrett MP and Rowan Ramsey MP, were among the first to participate, along with Dr Mike Freelander MP, Chair of the Health, Aged Care and Sport Committee.

Our nation’s decisionmakers underwent a health check, including HbA1c, cholesterol, blood pressure and heart health, and heard about the importance of these vital health checks. Diabetes Australia’s campaign to Unite for Tech also continued, as we highlighted the need for more equitable access to insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring devices.

The health check event was a great opportunity for MPs to learn more about diabetes technology and the importance of early detection and prevention of the condition.

It’s time to shake off the winter blues and get a spring back in your step. The new season is the perfect opportunity to renew your health and fitness goals and get outside in the sunshine.

It’s easy for exercise to go by the wayside during the cooler months, but it’s never too late to find that motivation again. It all starts with simply working towards moving more and sitting less. Here are some ideas that might help you increase your physical activity levels as the days warm up. 

Start small and set achievable goals 

If you have been inactive for some time, it is important to start off slowly and set SMART goals. That is, Specific Measurable Achievable Realistic and Time-framed goals. For example, “I want to build up to walking five times per week for 30 minutes at a moderate intensity within the next three months”. This allows you to start small and ensure that you can measure your progress over time. Remember, we’re all human and sometimes we relapse. Try not to let this discourage you, it is simply part of the change process and is an opportunity to reassess your goal.  

Green therapy 

Spring is a great time to venture outside and enjoy nature. The trees and flowers are blossoming and it boosts our mental and emotional wellbeing. Trade your treadmill walking for some physical activity in green spaces, such as your local park, beach or botanic garden. The sensory benefits of smelling the flowers, listening to the wildlife and waterways and feeling the texture of the surrounding trees and plants reduces stress. Recent studies show that this type of activity increases vitality, improves sleep quality and leads to greater concentration and self-confidence. 

A dose of vitamin D 

There’s something very invigorating about a healthy dose of sunshine on your skin. It makes us feel good and it helps the skin to produce vitamin D. So why not get out for a bike ride, swim or bush walk as the weather warms up? Don’t forget to slip (on a shirt), slop (on some sunscreen) and slap (on a hat). Try not to exercise during the hotter parts of the days and ensure you drink plenty of water. This is particularly important when you live with diabetes, as dehydration can increase blood glucose levels. 

Find your community 

Have you ever thought about joining activities with like-minded people? It could be that you have always wanted to try aqua aerobics, tai chi or Latin dancing. Maybe there’s a walking group in your local area? These types of activities can help maintain accountability and build social connectedness. Your local council may offer group programs or you could contact a PCYC or YMCA centre in your area. 

Where to get help 

If you are seeking additional support, an accredited exercise physiologist can help. They assess your current fitness level and prescribe appropriate exercise based on your goals, capabilities and limitations. See your doctor for a referral to an accredited exercise physiologist or search for one in your local area at essa.org.au/find-aep.  

By Hayley Nicholson, Exercise Physiologist, Credentialled Diabetes Educator 

It is estimated that osteoporosis affects over 1.2 million Australians, with a slightly higher prevalence in women. Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone mineral density and bone mass decreases, or when the structure and strength of bone changes. This can lead to a decrease in bone strength that can increase the risk of falls and fractures.

During childhood and adolescence the goal is to build as much bone strength as possible, so that you can maintain this throughout adulthood. Then, in your older years, it’s important to reduce bone loss and maintain muscle mass, which maximises mobility and balance. This ultimately helps to reduce the risk of falls and subsequent fractures as we age.

Bone density can be measured through a DEXA scan and it primarily measures bone density of the hips and spine. A T-score of -1 to -2.5 indicates osteopenia (lower than normal bone density) and a T-score of -2.5 or below indicates osteoporosis.

The good news is exercise plays an important role in maintaining bone health and preventing the development of osteoporosis. When it comes to exercise and bone health, not all exercise has the same impact on bones. The best type of exercise for our bones is weightbearing impact-loading exercises, resistance training and balance training. A combination of all three types of exercise is even better!

What are weightbearing impact-loading activities?

Weightbearing impact-loading activities are those that produce a force on the bones that promote bone growth and strength. This force is commonly produced by impact with the ground. This would include activities like bouncing, jumping, skipping, jogging, dancing, climbing stairs, and many team sports. It is through the weight of the body on the bones that the bones become stronger over time. Weight slightly compresses the bone matrix and triggers the cells to create more calcium and other minerals which increases bone density. Depending on the status of your bone density, it is recommended to incorporate these types of activities slowly and consider other musculoskeletal issues.

How to do resistance training at home

Resistance training is where you increase your muscle and bone strength by making your muscles work against a weight or force. This doesn’t mean you need to join a gym or have copious amounts of equipment at home. There are lots of things that you can use around the house as resistance, including water bottles or cans of food and even your own body weight. Alternatively, hand weights, kettlebells or therabands can be purchased for a small price for added variety.

Some examples of resistance training exercises include bicep curls, bent over row, wall push-ups and sit to stands. Ideally, a resistance training program will include 8-10 different exercises, targeting the major muscle groups of the body (ie: chest, back, arms, legs etc). It is recommended to perform 10 repetitions of each exercise, have a rest and then complete a second set of those same exercises.

Balance training

Balance training is another a very important component in improving bone density and reducing the risk of falls. In fact, we rely on good balance every day to do things such as walking, bending over to tie our shoe laces and stepping to the side to avoid obstacles. A good balance training program will challenge you to build the muscles that help keep you upright, including your legs and core. This could be simply standing on one leg for a few seconds or walking heel to toe in a straight line. There is also lots of equipment you can use that forces your body to stabilise itself, like the Bosu (half circle stability ball), balance boards, foam pads and other unstable surfaces. Over time, you can increase the difficulty of your balance training by holding positions for longer, closing your eyes or letting go of your chair or other support.

How to get started

If you are looking to improve your bone density and you’re not sure where to start, you can reach out to your doctor for a referral to an Accredited Exercise Physiologist, under a diabetes care plan. They can assess your capabilities and limitations, review your medical history and formulate an appropriate exercise program tailored to you. If exercise is new to you, this is a great way to build your confidence under supervision so that you can participate safely on your own in the comfort of your own home. Remember, healthy bones means greater independence and a reduced risk of falls.

By Hayley Nicholson Exercise Physiologist, Credentialed Diabetes Educator

Resources:

Healthy Bones Australia

Australian Physical Activity Guidelines

A new weight loss medicine, Wegovy, will be available in Australia from early August 2024.

Pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk made the announcement on 1 August 2024.

Wegovy is not currently subsidised under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and is only available via private prescription. People may be able to receive a portion of the cost of a private prescription from their private health insurance.

According to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Wegovy, which is a brand of semaglutide, is approved specifically for chronic weight management in adults and adolescents “as an adjunct to a reduced-energy diet and increased physical activity when specific criteria are met”.

Semaglutide is the same active ingredient found in Ozempic, a type 2 diabetes treatment.

The TGA has advised that while Wegovy and Ozempic contain the same active ingredient, the approved indications (circumstances for use) are different, as are the dosages.

Anyone interested in learning more about semaglutide products should speak with their health professional.

See the Wegovy Product Information for more information.

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy is a semaglutide injectable prescription medicine.

According to Novo Nordisk it is used with a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity:

• to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with known heart disease and with either obesity or overweight.
• that may help adults and children aged 12 years and older with obesity, or some adults with overweight who also have weight-related medical problems, to help them lose excess body weight and keep the weight off.