Why do big, strong calves help you live longer?

Most people think that exercise should focus on strengthening their arms, getting bigger butts, getting six-pack abs, or losing belly fat. But in fact, working your calves is just as important.

Numerous studies have shown that the legs are one of the most important body parts. However, leg exercises such as calf exercises are often overlooked, especially in the gym. If the body is a multi-story building, the legs are the part that supports that building, according to the health website Verywellfit (USA).

Squats will help your calves become stronger, thereby improving your health and longevity - PHOTO: AI

Strengthening the muscles in our legs not only helps us move or run more flexibly, but also indirectly helps us live longer. Many studies have shown that people with good leg strength tend to perform better on cognitive tests. Conversely, people with weak leg muscles are more likely to fall, injure themselves, be hospitalized, and even die earlier.

A study published in the Journal of Exercise Science & Fitness found that endurance exercises that target leg muscles, such as running or cycling, effectively increase insulin sensitivity and reduce cardiovascular risk factors in older adults.

This is because the calves are the largest muscle group in the body. When these muscles are used regularly, they absorb glucose from the blood, thereby regulating blood sugar and improving blood circulation.

Squats help strengthen leg muscles

To get strong and big leg muscles, the most common exercise is squats. There are many different types of squats, from squats without weights, traditional barbell squats to machine squats and many other variations.

Squats mainly affect the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes and lower back muscles. For beginners, squats should be done without weights or with light weights. The ideal training time is 3 sessions/week. One of the most important things when squatting is not to try to do too much but to practice with the correct form. This is especially important because it limits injuries.

Once you get used to the movement, gradually increase the weight. To ensure safety, do not increase the weight each week by more than 10%. If you notice pain in your knees or back, you should avoid doing squats. If you have bone or joint problems, you should consult a professional trainer or physical therapist, according to Verywellfit .

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/vi-sao-bap-chan-to-khoe-lai-song-tho-hon-185250707135502334.htm