Diabetes in Motion Launches Free Exercise Program in Santa Marta

Santa Marta de Penaguião Launches Free Exercise Program for Type 2 Diabetes Management

A new municipal health initiative in Santa Marta de Penaguião offers free, professionally supervised physical exercise sessions specifically designed for residents managing type 2 diabetes. The Directorate-General for Health (DGS) coordinates the national program known as “Diabetes em Movimento,” which translates to Diabetes in Motion. The local rollout aims to improve patient autonomy and overall quality of life through structured physical activity integrated directly into chronic disease management.

Schedule and Location at the Municipal Sports Pavilion

Exercise sessions take place at the Pavilhão Gimnodesportivo Municipal de Santa Marta de Penaguião. The program runs from October 2026 through June 2027, with classes scheduled every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Trained health and exercise professionals adapt every workout to match the individual functional capacities and physical needs of each participant.

Medical Referral Required for Free Municipal Rollout

The municipal rollout is a collaborative effort uniting the local municipality, the Community Care Unit (UCC), and the Local Health Unit of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro. While the sessions cost nothing for participants, joining the program requires a formal medical referral. Patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes must consult their attending physician or community nurse to verify eligibility requirements and complete the referral process.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Program

Who is eligible to join Diabetes em Movimento?

The program is open exclusively to individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes who receive a formal referral from a doctor or nurse within the local health network.