Type 1 Diabetics Finished Marathons at Competitive Pace
A study found that runners with type 1 diabetes performed similarly to non-diabetic athletes in 26.2-mile races.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Diabetes
Live Poll
Do you believe people with chronic conditions like diabetes can safely participate in endurance exercise?
A study of 10 people with type 1 diabetes revealed they finished 26.2-mile marathons with times comparable to non-diabetic runners. The group with diabetes recorded an average finish time of 228 minutes, compared to 248 minutes for the control group.
Why it matters
This research provides evidence that individuals with type 1 diabetes can manage intensive athletic performance alongside non-diabetic peers. The findings challenge historical limitations regarding physical activity for those managing blood glucose levels.
The study utilized a cohort of 10 runners with type 1 diabetes, average age 35, and a control group of 10 non-diabetic runners with an average age of nearly 40. Diabetic participants maintained pre-race blood sugar levels between 140 and 200 mg/dL.
The players
Poznan University of Medical Sciences
This is a Polish public medical university that conducted the research study.
European Association for the Study of Diabetes
This is a non-profit, scientific organization that facilitates the exchange of diabetes research.
The details
Researchers at the Poznan University of Medical Sciences in Poland monitored the participants at three checkpoints throughout the marathon. While one diabetic runner experienced two bouts of hypoglycemia during the race, medical staff administered carbohydrates or insulin as required to manage their condition.
Timeline
Sept. 22, 2026: The research findings were published.
Sept. 28 to Oct. 2, 2026: Researchers will present the data at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes meeting.
The Big Picture
This study follows a pattern set by the European Association for the Study of Diabetes meeting, which regularly evaluates emerging clinical research. The findings provide new data to be presented at this upcoming forum to validate updated athletic protocols for diabetes management.
The findings suggest that with careful blood sugar management, athletes with type 1 diabetes can engage in high-intensity endurance sports safely. Readers managing the condition should consult their healthcare providers before attempting to adjust insulin or carbohydrate intake for training.
The takeaway
Effective glucose management allowed diabetic runners to maintain performance levels consistent with their non-diabetic peers. This highlights the importance of checkpoint monitoring and strategic carbohydrate use for athletes living with chronic conditions.
What happens next
The research team will present their full findings at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes meeting in Milan, scheduled to take place from September 28 to October 2, 2026.
Further reading
Explore more findings and expert guidance in the Diabetes section.
Live Poll
Do you believe people with chronic conditions like diabetes can safely participate in endurance exercise?
