Calf Raise
Heel Raise · Calf Raises · Plantar Flexion Raise
BodyweightMachineBarbellDumbbell Free weightsMachinesCalisthenics
The calf raise is the foundational plantar-flexion exercise that trains the triceps surae (gastrocnemius and soleus) by rising onto the balls of the feet against load. Performed with the knee straight it biases the gastrocnemius; with the knee bent it shifts emphasis to the soleus. Use a full range of motion, pausing at the top squeeze and letting the heels drop to a deep stretch under control.
PrimaryGastrocnemiusSoleus
GroupsCalvesLower BodyLegsPosterior Chain
- Mechanic
- Isolation
- Load type
- Weighted
- Utility
- Basic
11 variations
- Bodyweight Standing Calf Raise Bodyweight
- Donkey Calf Raise Machine, Bodyweight
- Leg Press Calf Raise Machine
- Seated Calf Raise Machine
- Single-Leg Donkey Calf Raise Bodyweight, Machine
- Single-Leg Dumbbell Calf Raise Dumbbell, Plate
- Single-Leg Leg Press Calf Raise Machine
- Single-Leg Seated Calf Raise Machine, Dumbbell
- Smith Machine Calf Raise Smith machine, Plate
- Standing Barbell Calf Raise Barbell, Plate
- Standing Machine Calf Raise Machine