StrengthBeginner
Calf Raise
An isolation exercise for the calf muscles performed by rising onto the balls of the feet. Essential for ankle stability, jump performance, and running economy.
How to do it
- 1Stand tall, feet hip-width apart, core braced
- 2Rise up onto the balls of your feet as high as possible
- 3Pause briefly at the top, squeezing the calves
- 4Lower slowly with control through full range of motion
Common mistakes
- Bouncing at the bottom instead of controlling the eccentric
- Not reaching full range — staying on mid-foot
- Leaning forward and shifting weight off the calves
Muscles worked
calvescore
Variations
Easier
Seated calf raise
Harder
Single-leg calf raise off a step (deficit)
Used in
Related exercises
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