Looking for the best exercise for lymphatic drainage can be worth it especially if you have or at risk for conditions like lymphedema. It’s a condition characterized by swelling in the arms and legs. It is common in women who underwent breast cancer surgery that involves removal of the lymph nodes. It involves the lymphatic system and has something to do with obstructed lymph flow.
Exercise and Lymphatic Drainage
The lymphatic system is the body’s sewer system. It comprises of tissues and organs that help in getting rid of toxins and other unwanted materials in the body. Its primary function is to carry the lymph throughout the body. The lymph is a clear fluid that contains infection-fighting white blood cells.
Although the lymphatic system is comprised of millions of vessels like the body’s circulatory system, it doesn’t have a structure similar to the heart that keeps the lymph moving. What keeps it moving are activities that squeeze the lymphatic vessels. These include deep breathing and aerobic exercises such as walking.
The Best Exercise for Lymphatic Drainage
There are several exercises that can help in moving the lymph all throughout the body, but when it comes to the best exercise for lymphatic drainage, rebounding tops the list.
Rebounding refers to a group of exercises that involve aerobic bouncing. It can be done through jumping jacks, dancing, jumping on a trampoline, twisting, or running in place. Rebounding activities get the lymphatic fluid moving and help in getting rid of toxins.
Like other forms of physical activity, rebounding begins with a light warmup which is a few minutes of light bouncing. It is then followed by 5 to 10 minutes of bouncing variations (one can do a mix of strength and aerobic variations) and then a cool down of light bouncing.
Why Rebounding is the Best Exercise for Lymphatic Drainage
Rebounding is the best exercise for lymphatic drainage as it only takes a few minutes of rebounding activity to stimulate millions of one-way valves that make up the lymphatic system. The physiological benefits of two minutes rebounding is equivalent to what you will get from a 10-minute swim or a 6-minute run.
If you’re looking for the best exercise for lymphatic drainage, rebounding is a good choice. It’s easy to do and only requires a couple of minutes each day to do.
Image: JMacPherson