Exercises to Promote Circulation in Your Feet and Body

Promoting good circulation throughout your feet and body is more than just a stereotypical workout. Whether you’re a pro athlete or a senior looking to keep the blood flowing, there is a medley of exercises you can do to prevent cardiovascular issues. In this blog post from us at The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland, we’ll explore 7 exercises that can promote circulation and are healthy for the hearts of all ages.

Why Circulation Matters

Good circulation is required for removing waste products, preventing swelling, and delivering nutrients to the tissues in your feet and body. Without it, you may incur various foot ailments, such as numbness, tingling, cold feet, swelling, slow-healing wounds, and infections.

7 Exercises to Strengthen Circulation

Let’s start slow for those who can’t exercise fully. The elderly, those rehabbing from injuries, or others who cannot go full bore, these gentle motions are great ways to prevent blood clots and other serious conditions:

  • Ankle Pumps: Point your toes up and down as if you're pumping a gas pedal. You should feel it in the calves and shins.

  • Foot Circles: Rotate your feet clockwise and counterclockwise. This helps loosen up the ankle joint and improve circulation.

  • Toe Curls: Curl your toes and then spread them wide. This strengthens foot muscles and promotes further blood flow.

  • Calf Raises: Stand with your feet flat on the floor and raise up onto your toes, then lower back down.

And if you want to get a little more intense, here are some great workouts that are easy on the joints yet still provide a full foot and body stretch:

  • Walking: A great way to get your blood flowing and improve circulation throughout your body. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity walking most days of the week.

  • Yoga and Pilates: These activities involve various poses and movements that can improve flexibility, strengthen muscles, and promote circulation in the feet and ankles.

  • Swimming: The buoyancy of water reduces stress on your joints while providing an excellent cardiovascular workout.

Want to resolve your foot and ankle problems? Contact the office of Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland in Glen Burnie, MD, at (410) 761-3501 to schedule your initial appointment. We look forward to meeting you!

ExerciseThe Foot & Ankle Center Of MarylandThe Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland, exercise, Improved Circulation, Ankle Pumps, Foot Circles, Toe Curls, Blood Flow, Calf Raises, Walking, Yoga, Pilates, Swimming