Impact of quadriceps strength training along with aerobic exercise onphysical performance in a sedentary obese woman with type 2 diabetes: A case report

Background: Sedentary behavior, chronic metabolic conditions like type 2 diabetes, and excess adiposity accelerate physical function decline in young adults. Lower limb deconditioning, specifically quadriceps weakness, is implicated in accelerated fatigability, impaired balance, and reduced exercise tolerance. While independent benefits of resistance or aerobic training are known, few reports document a structured, combined progressive protocol targeting both functional deconditioning and metabolic parameters in this population. This case demonstrates the multi-system clinical efficacy of allow-cost, minimal-equipment protocol for primary care settings.

Methods: A 38-year-old sedentary woman with a 3-year history of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus presented with early-onset exertional fatigue, low musculoskeletal endurance, and poor glycemic control. A supervised, progressive, 6-week multimodal program (three sessions per week) combined low to moderate quadriceps strength training with aerobic conditioning, at intensities from 40% to 80% 𝐻𝑅𝑚𝑎𝑥, and durations to 40 minutes.

Results: Pre- and post-intervention assessments revealed broad-spectrum improvements across all metrics. Aerobic capacity VO2 max improved 19% (32.4 to 38.7ml/kg/min), single-leg stance balance improved 59% (22 to 35 s), agility times dropped 13%, and reaction time quickened by 21%.Exertion and respiration improved, with perceived exertion (Borg RPE) decreasing by 27% and Peak Expiratory Flow Rate increasing by 21%. Cardiovascular health markers normalized, and metabolic health significantly improved, demonstrating a substantial reduction in both fasting and postprandial blood sugar levels (BSL).

Conclusion: In this sedentary patient with obesity and type 2 diabetes, a 6-week program combining progressive quadriceps strength training with moderate aerobic conditioning was associated with functional and short-term metabolic improvements. Larger controlled studies are warranted to establish generalizability and long-term efficacy.