Calf Raises
Stand tall, feet hip-width. Rise onto the balls of your feet, squeeze at the top, then lower slowly to a full stretch. Keep core tight and ankles aligned to build calf strength and ankle stability.
Muscles worked
Primary
Equipment

How to do it
- Stand tall with feet hip-width and the balls of the feet on a stable surface.
- Brace the core and keep the knees nearly straight without locking hard.
- Raise the heels as high as comfortable.
- Pause briefly at the top with ankles tracking straight.
- Lower slowly until you feel a calf stretch.
- Keep pressure through the big toe and second toe.
Watch for
- Bouncing out of the bottom.
- Ankles rolling outward at the top.
- Bending the knees to turn it into a squat.
Breathing
Exhale as you rise, inhale as you lower.
Tip
Use a wall or rack for balance if it helps you keep the ankles aligned.
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