We usually exercise our muscles for better strength and fitness. In Japan, researchers have found that working muscles can also help treat or prevent a wide range of illnesses. 2 effective methods are in use at Japanese medical facilities. One, called slow training, has the same impact on muscles as a hard workout, and helps patients with diabetes control their blood-sugar levels. The other method, called "kaatsu training", has proven helpful in rehabilitation, even for patients weakened by illness. We also introduce simple exercise for extending the core muscles.