Around 1.7 million Australians have diabetes, with a startling 280 Australians developing diabetes every day. That’s one person every five minutes. More than 100,000 Australians have developed diabetes in the past year alone.

Type 2 diabetes represents 85 to 90 per cent of all cases of diabetes, and while there is currently no cure for type 2 diabetes, the condition can be managed through lifestyle modifications and medication.

Lifestyle modifications include weight loss/management, physical activity and dietary modification.

This is where the diabetes NSW and ACT’s BEAT IT program comes in.

The BEAT IT program runs over 8-12 weeks and provides people with, or at risk, of diabetes with an individualised physical and lifestyle program. As was the case for Stephen.

Moving home was the inspiration 50-year old Stephen needed to get his health back on track.

Stephen had been struggling with type 2 diabetes for 10 years and needed a program that would support his efforts to get back in shape. His blood glucose and cholesterol levels were unmanageable and he was on several types of medication.

He found the BEAT IT program on Diabetes NSW & ACT’s website (diabetesnsw.com.au) and immediately signed up. It proved to be life changing. After receiving clearance from his GP, Stephen was determined to give the class a go.

“Most participants have either never exercised before, or are looking for a way to get back into a healthy routine,” says Diabetes NSW & ACT Accredited Exercise Physiologist, Ashley Baveas. “Being in a supportive environment is key to their success - and everyone is just so friendly.”

Over 11 months, Stephen lost an incredible 69.2kg on the BEAT IT program. Not only did his fitness improve but his doctor was able to take him off one set of diabetes tablets and halve the dosage of the other. His cholesterol levels also improved dramatically and he no longer needs blood pressure tablets.

“I am over the moon,” Stephen said. “It takes time, but perseverance pays off. It’s amazing when you start seeing results. My blood glucose levels are under control and I feel on top of the world.”

The BEAT IT program is suitable for people who may be overweight or obese, with or at risk of diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, arthritis, osteoporosis and any other lifestyle related chronic condition. It is also suitable for anybody just looking to get active and improve their health in a supportive environment.

If you are interested in joining a BEAT IT program in Wollongong, Diabetes NSW & ACT will be running a program in mid-April at the Railway Community Centre. It is an eight-week program with classes held on Tuesday and Thursday. For more information, call 1300 136 588.

Diabetes NSW & ACT is Australia’s largest member-based charity for people living with or at risk of diabetes.