1 / 6Standing Calf Raise
Rising onto your toes trains the calves, which help with walking, running and jumping and give the lower legs shape.
Legs
- Level
- Beginner
- Equipment
- Machine
- Main muscle
- Legs
- Also works
- —
- Beginner sets
- 3 × 12–20
- Rest
- 45 seconds
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See the app · coming soonHow to do it
- 1Stand with the balls of your feet on the edge of a step or platform.
- 2Keep your legs straight.
- 3Rise up onto your toes as high as you can.
- 4Lower your heels slowly below the step.
Common mistakes
- Bouncing quickly at the bottom
- Doing tiny reps
- Bending the knees to help
Tips
- Lower your heels below the step for a full stretch
- Rise as high as you can and pause
- Go slow: 2 seconds up, 2 down
Questions
Why don't my calves grow?
Calves need full range, slow reps and plenty of sets. Try pausing at the top and bottom of each rep.
Can I do it without a machine?
Yes, on a stair edge with body weight, then holding a dumbbell.
More Legs exercises
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