A03: Acute Blood Glucose Response Differences During One Week of Riding an E-Bike

The health benefits of physical activity are well established, especially in those with chronic conditions and/or low fitness levels. Many individuals may not engage in regular physical activity due to perceptions of it being too difficult or not enjoyable. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of short-term electric bike (e-bike; EB) use on blood glucose and physical activity levels in middle-age adults with low fitness. In wk 1, participants (n=3 female, n=2 male, mean age=53.8±6.8 y, predicted VO2max=23.8±2.3 ml•kg•min-1) did not have access to an e-bike (NB) and in wk 2, subjects were provided an e-bike with instructions to ride >20 min/d, ≥4 d/wk. A continuous glucose monitor was attached to the upper arm at the beginning of wk 1 to track changes in blood glucose every 15 min. A physical activity monitor was attached to the thigh at the beginning of wk 1 to track movement, steps, cycling time, and postures. Blood glucose and physical activity were assessed continuously for 2 wk. No differences were found for sedentary time (NB=523±212 vs. EB=483±49.6 min•day-1), cycling time (NB=3.2±3.3 vs. EB=10.7±7.2 min•day-1), or total activity score (NB=86.2±1.vs. EB=86.0±1.8 MET-seconds through the day). The percentage of time points where blood glucose was outside a normal healthy range (<70 or ≥120 mg•dL-1) was lower (P = 0.05) in the EB week (19.6±22.8%) compared to the NB week (27.3±27.3%), indicating better glucose regulation within normal bounds in the EB week. Improved blood glucose regulation in just one week of access to an e-bike for below average fit adults is promising for this emerging mode of physical activity. Continued recruitment and testing of participants will permit stronger conclusions.

Authors: Alexandra Bagg, Gabe Garcia, Chelsie Fellman, Katie Hayward, Mason Maish, Jill Sandrick, Helaine Alessio, Montoye, A., FACSM, Kevin Ballard, FACSM, Paul Reidy, Kyle Timmerman, FACSM

Advisors: Helaine Alessio, Kevin Ballard, FACSM, Paul Reidy, Kyle Timmerman, FACSM