5 Popular Exercises That are Good for Vein Health
Should I Exercise with Varicose Veins?
If you have varicose veins, you may be wondering if you should exercise or not. You may have said no to summer activities with a fear that it can make varicose veins worse.
Generally, exercise helps keep veins healthy and promotes circulation. As the weather warms up and you begin to spend more time outside, there are many different opportunities to promote vein health.
5 Exercise Ideas for Summer Time
Swimming - When you kick your legs underwater, the force also pushes the blood out of your legs, especially if your legs are horizontal to your heart. Besides its circulation benefits, swimming is a great choice for overall muscular and cardiovascular health.
Walking - On a cool summer night, grab your family or a friend and go on an easy walk! This strengthens your calf muscles and also increases circulation. This low-impact exercise is easy on your joints and promotes healthy blood flow.
Cycling - Just like walking, cycling will also promote calf muscle strength while also keeping the blood in your legs pumping through your heart. Whether you hop on a stationary bike at the gym or find some scenic outdoor trails, you’ll be preventing vein disease while also getting a fun workout in!
Rollerblading - Maybe you’ve stored the blades from your teenage years in a box in the garage, but it’s not a bad idea to dust them off! Rollerblading can be a fun exercise that also helps with circulation in the lower body.
Paddle Boats (aka water bikes) - If you’re near a body of water, and have the opportunity to try paddle boating out, it’s a definite must! This boat is propelled forward by its passengers pedaling almost in the same way you’d pedal a bike. The cool thing about this is you can spend time on the water and enjoy time with a partner.
What to Remember
Wear sunscreen when you’re outside. Sun damage is a cause of vein disease.
Stay hydrated. Try to drink on average 3.7 liters of fluid for men and 2.7 liters for women (The National Academies of Science-Engineering-Medicine).
Take frequent breaks. Avoid intensive training.
Rest up with your feet elevated after exercise. This will help with circulation.
Schedule a free screening with our physicians to learn more about your vein health conditions and what exercises will be a good fit for you.