Supporting Research
Research has found a meaningful association between leg strength and heart health.
A 2024 study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that greater quadriceps strength was associated with a lower risk of hospitalization for heart failure among people who had experienced acute coronary syndrome.
Research presented at the European Society of Cardiology’s Heart Failure 2023 meeting also reported that people with stronger legs were less likely to develop heart failure after a heart attack.
These findings are encouraging, but they show an association rather than proof that leg exercises directly prevent heart attacks or heart failure.
Practical Recommendations for Heart Health
To incorporate lower-body exercise into your routine, consider exercises such as:
- Squats or chair squats
- Lunges or supported lunges
- Step-ups
- Sit-to-stand exercises
- Leg presses
- Calf raises
For overall cardiovascular health, combine strength training with regular aerobic activity.
A general goal for healthy adults is:
- At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, such as brisk walking or cycling.
- Muscle-strengthening activities at least twice a week, targeting the major muscle groups.
If you are new to exercise, start gradually and increase the intensity over time.
The Bottom Line
Dr. London’s comments highlight the important role that lower-body strength and regular physical activity can play in maintaining overall health.
Research suggests that stronger legs are associated with a lower risk of heart failure, particularly among people who have experienced acute coronary syndrome. However, there is no single exercise that can guarantee protection against a heart attack.
A comprehensive approach—including aerobic exercise, strength training, a heart-healthy diet, healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, not smoking, adequate sleep, and appropriate medical care—is the best way to support cardiovascular health.
Strong legs can be an important part of a strong heart-health routine, but they are only one piece of the puzzle.
Sources
- European Journal of Preventive Cardiology — Research examining the association between quadriceps strength and heart-failure risk after acute coronary syndrome.
- European Society of Cardiology — Research presented at the 2023 Heart Failure meeting concerning leg strength and heart-failure risk after a heart attack.
- Best Life — Article discussing a cardiologist’s recommendations for exercise and heart health.
- Parade — Article discussing exercise and heart-attack risk.
- The Healthy / Reader’s Digest — Information on exercise and cardiovascular health.
