Calf Muscles Reduce Post-Exercise Fainting

When exercise stops abruptly, blood vessels in the worked muscles remain dilated while the loss of rhythmic muscle contractions allows blood to pool in the legs. Walking during recovery keeps the calf muscle pump active, squeezing the leg veins and helping return blood to the heart. This active recovery can reduce the risk of post-exercise hypotension and fainting, which most often occur when someone stands motionless during the first 5 to 10 minutes after exercise.

Previous Fact Next Fact