The calf muscles, especially the soleus and gastrocnemius
The calf muscles, especially the soleus and gastrocnemius, function like a second heart by helping push blood from the legs back to the heart.
When they contract, they compress the veins, and the one-way valves inside those veins keep the blood moving upward. This action supports venous return and helps stop blood from collecting in the lower legs.
If you are inactive for long periods, this calf pump becomes less effective, which can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), varicose veins, and long-term venous disorders.
Because the soleus is a highly fatigue resistant muscle, it is particularly important for sustaining this pumping effect over extended periods.
Consistently strengthening and stretching the calves with exercises such as calf raises and calf stretches improves their performance, supports healthy circulation, can help reduce blood pressure, and offers protection against blood clot formation.
