Standing Calf Raise

Setup

• Stand with the balls of the feet on a step or machine platform, legs straight.
• Hold a support or the machine pads for balance.

Execution

1. 1.Lower the heels below the platform into a full stretch.
2. 2.Press up onto the toes as high as you can, keeping the knees straight.
3. 3.Pause at the top, then lower under control.

Breathing

Exhale as you rise, inhale as you lower.

Form cues

• Straight knees keep the load on the gastrocnemius.
• Full range in both directions.
• Pause at the top rather than bouncing.

Common mistakes

• Bending the knees and turning it into a partial squat.
• Bouncing through a short middle range.
• Rushing so the stretch is never reached.