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Not only can regular leg stretching help reduce pain and muscle tension, it may even be one other method to protect against heart disease and stroke. A study published online July 1, 2020 Journal of Physiology It seems that straightforward leg stretches may also help improve blood flow throughout the body.
Researchers divided 39 healthy people into two groups. One group didn’t stretch in any respect. The second group did 4 sorts of leg stretches five times every week for 12 weeks. Stretches concentrate on the hips, knees and ankles. Each stretch was performed for 45 seconds with 15 seconds of recovery. Next, the researchers found that the stretching group had higher blood flow and fewer stiffness within the lower leg arteries. The stretching group also had lower blood pressure at the tip of the study in comparison with their initial readings.
The researchers hypothesized that stretching the lower body causes the muscles to press on the arteries within the thighs and legs. This causes the body to release chemicals that dilate the arteries to permit more blood to enter. It also had an effect on the arteries within the upper body, as participants showed similar changes within the arteries of their upper arms.
The researchers noted that stretching the legs may offer additional protection against heart disease, stroke and even diabetes, all of that are linked to reduced blood flow. He added that leg stretching is particularly useful for high-risk individuals who have mobility issues and can’t exercise commonly.
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