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

Calf Raises exercise demonstration

How to do it

  1. Stand tall with feet hip-width and the balls of the feet on a stable surface.
  2. Brace the core and keep the knees nearly straight without locking hard.
  3. Raise the heels as high as comfortable.
  4. Pause briefly at the top with ankles tracking straight.
  5. Lower slowly until you feel a calf stretch.
  6. 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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