The calf muscles perform an essential cardiovascular support role that doctors describe as the “second heart. These muscles are called so, because they pump blood upward towards the heart. People with ...

Strong calf muscles propel you forward when walking and running, generate the explosive power needed for jumping, help maintain your balance and stability and protect your feet, ankles and knees from ...

THE KEY TO building a strong, symmetrical physique comes down to focusing on body parts most people neglect. One spot typically overlooked (and improperly trained) than others: the calf muscles. If ...

The calf muscles, comprising the gastrocnemius and soleus, are often referred to as the body’s “second heart” because of their critical role in promoting blood circulation. Every time we walk, stand, ...

Large muscles like the hamstrings and glutes tend to get all the glory on leg day, but don't sleep on a very important group of muscles: the calves. The largest and most visible part of the calf is ...

Roshini Raj, MD, is Health's former magazine's medical editor and coauthor of What the Yuck?!. Board-certified in gastroenterology and internal medicine, Dr. Raj is a Clinical Associate Professor of ...

The strength of your calf muscles may help predict whether or not you will develop dementia, studies show. Strong calf muscles help maintain healthy blood pressure and ensure steady blood flow to the ...

It’s easy to take for granted all the ways your leg muscles stretch, flex, and work together to enable you to go about your daily life. Whether you walk, stand, sit, or run, it’s due to the work and ...

A pulled or strained calf muscle refers to a strain in the two muscles at the back of your leg, the gastrocnemius and soleus. It usually takes three days for it to start feeling better, but full ...

Simone Biles receives treatment during Women's Qualification during Day 2 of the 2024 Summer Olympics at Bercy Arena in Paris, France, on July 28. (Photo by Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated via Getty ...

The calf muscles play a vital role in blood circulation. They are often called the body's second heart. Strong calf muscles improve venous return and prevent blood pooling. Sedentary lifestyles weaken ...