# Mixing Cardio and Weights Helps Blood Sugar, But Not More Than One Alone

*Effects of combined training on glycemic control and lipid profiles in middle-aged and older adults: A three-level meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.*

- **Evidence Level**: Moderate
- **Publication Types**: Journal Article, Review
- **Journal**: Maturitas
- **Sample Size**: 1,853 adults aged 45+
- **Authors**: Wang T, Zhang Y, Zhang L, Li H, Zhao C, Li J, Meng F
- **Published**: 2026-07-16
- **Topics**: exercise, blood sugar, insulin resistance
- **DOI**: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.maturitas.2026.109054
- **Original Source**: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42475882/

## Summary

Combining cardio with strength training lowered blood sugar markers in middle-aged and older adults. But it did not clearly beat doing just cardio or just weights on its own. The strongest benefit was for long-term blood sugar control, and overweight people saw the biggest improvement in insulin resistance.

## Practical Takeaway

This study suggests combined cardio and strength training may help blood sugar in older adults.

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