Recent research has highlighted the potential of the soleus muscle—a deep muscle in the calf—for improving metabolic health through a specific exercise known as the soleus push-up (SPU). A study published in iScience by Marc Hamilton and colleagues (2022) found that performing SPUs resulted in a 52% reduction in postprandial (after eating) blood glucose excursions, with blood sugar levels approximately 50 mg/dL lower between one and two hours after ingestion (Hamilton et al., 2022). Additionally, the study reported a 60% decrease in hyperinsulinemia, suggesting improved insulin sensitivity. Unlike most muscles that primarily use glycogen for energy, the soleus muscle relies more on blood glucose and fats, making it highly efficient at prolonged oxidative metabolism. This allows it to sustain continuous low-intensity contractions without fatigue, leading to metabolic benefits that are not typically seen in regular activities like walking or standing (Hamilton et al., 2022).