Reviewed by Lexie CornerMar 28 2025
A recent study published in BMJ Open by an international team of researchers at the University of Birmingham found that wearable mobile health technology can help individuals diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) consistently follow exercise regimens, which are essential for managing their condition.
Smartwatches may help control diabetes through exercise. Image Credit: University of Birmingham
Individuals participating in home-based physical activity programs experience better outcomes when using a smartwatch connected to a health application on their smartphone.
The researchers closely monitored the behaviors of patients newly diagnosed with T2D in Canada and the United Kingdom who were engaged in home-based physical activity programs. A subgroup of these participants used a smartwatch paired with a health app on their smartphones to assist in their efforts.
The study found that participants in the MOTIVATE-T2D program were more likely to begin and maintain regular exercise with the support of wearable technology. The study enrolled 125 participants and achieved an 82 % retention rate after 12 months.
The research also identified several potential clinical benefits, including improvements in blood sugar levels and systolic blood pressure.
Our findings support the feasibility of the MOTIVATE-T2D intervention – paving the way for a full-scale randomized controlled trial to further investigate its clinical and cost-effectiveness.
Dr. Katie Hesketh, Study Co-Author, University of Birmingham
Dr. Hesketh continued, “We found that using biometrics from wearable technologies offered great promise for encouraging people with newly diagnosed T2D to maintain a home-delivered, personalized exercise program with all the associated health benefits.”
Researchers found that, in addition to improvements in blood sugar and systolic blood pressure, the program may also help lower cholesterol and improve quality of life.
The program encouraged participants to gradually increase moderate-to-vigorous intensity exercise, with a target of 150 minutes per week by the end of six months. This was supported by a virtual, exercise specialist-led behavioral counseling service.
MOTIVATE-T2D used biofeedback and data sharing to develop personalized physical activity plans. The wearable technology used included a smartwatch with a 3D accelerometer and an optical heart rate monitor, synchronized with an online coaching platform for exercise specialists and a web/smartphone app for participants.
“The program offered a variety of workouts, including cardio and strength training, that could be done without the need for a gym. Its goal is to make exercise a sustainable part of daily life for people with Type 2 Diabetes, ultimately improving their physical and mental health,” added Dr. Hesketh.
The feasibility trial targeted individuals aged 40-75 years who had been diagnosed with T2D within the last 5-24 months and were managing their condition through lifestyle changes or Metformin.
Regular physical activity is essential for managing Type 2 diabetes, improving blood glucose control, supporting weight management, enhancing mental well-being, and reducing the risk of diabetes-related complications.
Rob Andrews, Associate Professor, Diabetes, University of Exeter
Rob Andrews continued, “However, only one-third of individuals with Type 2 diabetes engage in sufficient exercise to achieve these benefits. For the first time, our research provides compelling evidence that wearable technology offers a practical and effective solution to increase physical activity levels, potentially transforming health outcomes for people with Type 2 diabetes.”