The University Health Fitness Center at Texas Diabetes Institute is free and open to all patients with a provider referral. Once you join, we will perform a health assessment, discuss your fitness plan and show you how to use the exercise equipment. Become more active and improve your health by participating in our exercise program.

Meet Your Health Goals with Support

Participate in supervised exercise at the Fitness Center at Texas Diabetes Institute. Work with knowledgeable, supportive fitness professionals and exercise among friendly people who share similar goals and health concerns.

Fitness Center Equipment

Find a modern fitness center equipped with:

• Arm cycles
• Cable weights and dumbbells
• Elliptical trainers
• Stationary bikes
• Treadmills

Adult Exercise Program

Start your journey to improve your overall health by joining the adult group exercise program at the Fitness Center. Receive group support, bond with others like you, and get guidance from an onsite registered nurse who oversees your health.

Membership requires a referral from your doctor. The Fitness Center is open Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Call 210-358-7206 to learn more about the program and fees.

Individual Fitness Assessment

Your first visit to the center will focus on a personal fitness assessment. This will help your fitness expert to design an effective, individualized exercise plan to help you meet your health goals safely.

Tracking and Measuring Your Progress

Track decreases in body fat and increases in muscle mass from regular exercise with body composition measurements.

An onsite registered nurse can assist you by checking your blood sugar before and after exercise. You’ll have a log of your blood sugar, blood pressure, weight and activity throughout the exercise program to motivate you to reach your goals.

Classes Available

The Fitness Center provides free exercise classes every month at Texas Diabetes Institute in room 1019. If you have questions, please contact us at 210-358-7206.

Arthritis Exercise Class

The arthritis exercise class is an evidenced-based exercise class designed by the Arthritis Foundation [Physical Activity Programs Proven to Help Arthritis] that focuses on mobility, strength, range of motion and staying fit.

Fitness Group Walk

The walking group is a fun exercise option that focuses on your walking pace, steps, time, distance and effort level, using the Mayo Clinic Walk Plan [10,000 steps a day: Too low? Too high? - Mayo Clinic or Get walking with this 12-week walking schedule - Mayo Clinic News Network]. The walking group will meet at the garden at Texas Diabetes Institute.

Fit-U Class

The Fit-U class is an exciting exercise class of moderate intensity to improve your mobility, endurance and strength.

Tai Chi Class

The Tai Chi class is a special exercise class that focuses on strengthening heart and lung functions, increasing strength and flexibility, improving balance and decreasing stress levels.

Yoga Class

The yoga class is a mindful yoga class that focuses on balance, strength, flexibility and breathing.

Benefits of Exercise for Health Management

Research shows exercise can help prevent and treat diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity. Regular exercise:

• Boosts energy levels
• Decreases blood pressure and makes your heart stronger
• Enhances flexibility and balance
• Helps control weight
• Improves self-esteem and sense of well-being
• Increases muscular strength and stamina
• Lowers bad (LDL) and raises good (HDL) cholesterol to make overall levels better
• Lowers blood sugar levels and improves the way your body uses insulin
• Reduces stress