The finding not only reinforces the importance of movement in combating a sedentary lifestyle, but also suggests specific exercises as a preventative strategy. The research showed that activating this “venous pump” reduces symptoms such as heavy legs and swelling and improves overall oxygenation of the body.
These data don’t stop at the laboratory: they are especially useful for people who work seated, older adults, or those suffering from chronic venous insufficiency. The study highlights that strenuous training isn’t required to reap benefits. Small, regular movements are enough to get this auxiliary heart working.
This scientific evidence reinforces what many experts have already recommended: moving frequently isn’t just a healthy lifestyle suggestion, but a concrete physiological need.
How to Activate Your Second Heart (Without Going to the Gym)
The best news is that taking care of your “second heart” doesn’t require hours of exercise. Simply incorporating small habits throughout the day is enough to keep it going. Walking for a few minutes every hour is one of the most effective ways. If you work seated, you can do heel raises (raising and lowering your feet as if pressing an invisible pedal) to mimic the natural pumping of the soleus muscle.
The finding not only reinforces the importance of movement in combating a sedentary lifestyle, but also suggests specific exercises as a preventative strategy. The research showed that activating this “venous pump” reduces symptoms such as heavy legs and swelling and improves overall oxygenation of the body.
These data don’t stop at the laboratory: they are especially useful for people who work seated, older adults, or those suffering from chronic venous insufficiency. The study highlights that strenuous training isn’t required to reap benefits. Small, regular movements are enough to get this auxiliary heart working.
This scientific evidence reinforces what many experts have already recommended: moving frequently isn’t just a healthy lifestyle suggestion, but a concrete physiological need.
How to Activate Your Second Heart (Without Going to the Gym)
The best news is that taking care of your “second heart” doesn’t require hours of exercise. Simply incorporating small habits throughout the day is enough to keep it going. Walking for a few minutes every hour is one of the most effective ways. If you work seated, you can do heel raises (raising and lowering your feet as if pressing an invisible pedal) to mimic the natural pumping of the soleus muscle.
