Background/aim: Type 2 diabetes is a lifestyle-related condition. Lifestyle modification in the management of type 2 diabetes incorporates exercise. The aim of this study was to find out how unsupported and unsupervised exercise relates to anthropometric indices and biochemical indices in type 2 diabetes patients. Materials and methods: In the cross-sectional study, a structured questionnaire was used to access data on the exercise history of patients. Subjects were classified according to exercise intensity. The dietary intake of patients was obtained by 24-h recall. Standard measurements were taken of waist circumference and blood pressure. Blood samples were also collected to measure biochemical parameters. Results: Waist circumference, body mass index, and triglycerides were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in type 2 diabetics who engaged in high-intensity exercise than in those who engaged in low-intensity exercise. Systolic blood pressure was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in the moderate-intensity exercise group than in the low-intensity exercise group. Conclusion: Unsupported exercise was found to be related to favorable anthropometric indices (waist circumference and body mass index), blood pressure, and triglycerides.