Is there any reason why a person who has type 1 diabetes and no retinopathy or other eye complications should not lift weights for exercise?

There are a few other considerations outside of retinopathy which may limit participation in heavy weight training (and vigorous exercise in general) by persons with diabetes. These might include renal function (kidney disease), and cardiovascular disease, particularly “silent ischemia” (blockages in the coronary arteries without symptoms). The concern with both kidney and cardiac function is due to the sudden and significant increases in blood pressure that can occur with heavy lifting and straining. These increases can worsen renal function in pre-existing renal disease by affecting pressures in the kidney. Heavy weight training can also place great strain on the heart and blood vessels. Recognize that weight training can be modified to lower the intensity with the use of light weights and increased repetition, allowing most people to participate.

DMW