How often should a diabetic athlete check blood glucose around exercise?

• A. The athlete should check blood glucose levels 2 or 3 times before, every 30 minutes during, and every other hour up to 4 hours after exercise
• B. Check only before and after exercise
• C. Only during exercise every 15 minutes
• D. Before, during, and after at fixed hourly intervals

Answer: (C)

During exercise, blood glucose can swing quickly because muscles rapidly use glucose and insulin action can change with activity. Checking every 15 minutes while the athlete is exercising gives timely information to catch drops (or spikes) early, so they can take quick-acting carbohydrates or adjust intensity or intake to stay safe. Pre‑ or post‑exercise checks alone don’t capture the rapid changes that can occur once activity starts, and waiting to test only at the beginning or end misses the critical window when the risk of hypoglycemia is highest. With checks at 15-minute intervals during the workout, you’re proactively monitoring the period of greatest fluctuation and can respond promptly to keep performance and safety intact.