Ep 174: Matters of the Heart

Biomechanist Katy Bowman and biologist Jeannette Loram discuss Matters of the Heart. They cover the anatomy, tissues and function of the cardiovascular system, highlighting key concepts of heart health that are underappreciated. They discuss the importance of the flexibility of red blood cells, arterial walls and the heart muscle itself. They also explain the vital role of skeletal muscle contraction in healthy circulation. Muscle contraction during exercise not only assists the return of blood to the heart from the extremities, it is also the signal for blood vessels near working muscles to dilate or widen ‘pulling’ blood from arteries into the tissues. Katy and Jeannette talk about a movement diet to support the cardiovascular system. They emphasize the importance of higher intensity activity for taking the heart and arteries through their full ranges of motion. Their discussion also offers up a much larger buffet of exercise options than you might have previously considered. Strength training, big body work and stress-reducing movement all have complementary benefits for the cardiovascular system. Also in this episode Katy interviews podiatrist Dr Ray McClanahan, founder of Correct Toes and one of our podcast sponsors. Correct Toes are a toe orthotic designed to return toes to their natural alignment as the widest part of the foot. Ray explains the functional benefits of aligned toes, including improved balance, circulation and strength. Katy and Ray chat about how and why Correct Toes came about and they also discuss the future, with an introduction to some of Correct Toes latest products. Enhanced Show Notes & Full Transcript Chapters: 00:03:25 - How has the heart shown up in life recently? 00:06:20 - The Dynamic Collective 00:07:30 - Anatomy00:22:15 - Let’s talk about movement00:31:25 - The arteries and calf hearts 00:43:25 - Glycogen, stress, strength training, and the movement buffet 00:47:10 - Listener question sponsored by Smart Playrooms 00:56:30 - Interview with Dr. Ray McClanahan of CorrectToes.com Books & Articles Mentioned: My Perfect Movement Plan by Katy BowmanMove Your DNA by Katy BowmanConnect, Move & Learn:Join Our Newsletter: Movement Colored GlassesTry Katy's Virtual Studio Free for 7 days!Made Possible by Our Dynamic Collective of Wonderful Sponsors: Correct Toes, soft silicone toe spacers that can be worn barefoot or in shoesPeluva, Five-toe minimalist sports shoes ideal for higher impact activitiesMovemate, dynamic active standing boards that invite movement and play into your workday, without disrupting your workflowSmart Playrooms, design and products to keep your kids engaged and active at homeWildling, minimal footwear for toddlers, kids and adults made from natural materialsVenn Design, beautiful floor cushions and ball seats that keep you moving at home or at the office. Thoughts/questions email us at [email protected] Voice on the Podcast: Read The Credits  October Retreats 2026